Barking and Dagenham Council's cabinet has approved a raft of measures, including the council tax consultation, Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, a customer experience strategy, a digital strategy, and changes to school and care technology services. Councillors also discussed the community endowment fund and lift maintenance contracts.

Budget Strategy and Council Tax

The cabinet discussed the draft budget strategy for 2026/27 to 2030/31, noting a revised budget gap of £21.8 million for 2026/27, which could rise to nearly £50 million over four years. They agreed to consult residents on a proposed 2.99% general council tax increase and a 2% adult social care precept. Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, pointed out that every 1% increase in council tax generates just under £1 million for the council. The consultation will begin on 10 December 2025, using an online portal, and will include a Facebook Live session with Councillor Twomey and Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, as well as in-person events.

Housing Revenue Account

The cabinet agreed to proposed increases to rents and some service charges in 2026/27, as part of the HRA budget and rent setting for 2026/27 and 30-year business plan. The increases, set at CPI (Consumer Price Index) plus 1%, or 4.8%, are intended to support the financial stability of the HRA. Councillor Worby noted that while some rent figures may seem high, the average rent for a three-bed property at £139 a week is still comparatively low. She also noted that those on benefits and universal credit will have the increase absorbed. The cabinet also agreed to postpone rent convergence, which would have brought council rents in line with market rents. The changes to right to buy¹ were also noted, with the qualifying period now 10 years instead of three, and the maximum discount reduced to £38,000. Councillor Twomey raised concerns about the retrofitting of properties with old windows, stating:

It's no good talking about retrofitting, and I know I've had conversations with Councillor Warby about the length of time some windows have been in some of our flats, and I know that's no longer a key area for replacement, but, frankly, I don't understand how we can talk about retrofitting properties with all of this stuff when, actually, we've got windows that are 30 years old.

Customer Experience and Access Strategy

The cabinet approved the Customer Experience and Access Strategy 2025-2028, which aims to improve how residents access council services. The strategy focuses on a 'digital by design, not digital only' approach, expanding digital self-service options while maintaining telephone and face-to-face support. Councillor Twomey emphasised the importance of residents feeling valued and connected, and being able to access services easily. Councillor Worby stressed the need for the system to flag up vulnerability, so that responses can be tailored appropriately. Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership & Engagement, highlighted the importance of publishing performance and accountability data on the council's website.

Digital, Data and Technology Strategy

The cabinet approved the Digital, Data and Technology Strategy 2025-2028, which is closely linked to the Customer Experience and Access Strategy. The strategy outlines the council's vision for using technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to improve services and resident outcomes. Key drivers include improving service user experience, reducing costs, improving staff experience, and ensuring data security.

All Age Care Technology Service

The cabinet approved the procurement of a new All Age Care Technology Service, which aims to help residents live independently and safely at home, while reducing demand on health and social care services. The service will be commissioned via two lots: core service provision, and a strategic partner to support change management and innovation. Councillor Worby noted that the council is at the leading edge of care technology, and that the new contract will expand the service to children. She also gave an example of the sophistication of modern care technology, stating that the systems can now detect when something falls off the sofa, and differentiate between a person, a cat, or a dog.

Roding Primary School Consolidation

The cabinet approved the proposal to consolidate Roding Primary School onto the Cannington Road site, and close the Hewitt Road site. This decision follows a consultation, and aims to address declining demand for primary school places in the area. Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment & School Improvement, explained that the school leadership supports the plan, which will retain existing classes and the school ethos. Councillor Akwaboah noted that some children have gone to St. Teresa's, which is just around the corner.

Community Endowment Contribution

The cabinet agreed to cap the contribution to the Borough Community Endowment fund at a maximum of £100,000 or 20% of the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) income above £300,000, whichever is lower. Councillor Ashraf explained that the community endowment has a good history of building relationships with the voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sectors. Councillor Twomey expressed support for BD Giving, but noted that the amount given to the local sector was significantly less than the recommendation made back in October 2022.

Lift Maintenance Contract

The cabinet approved the retrospective award of a contract for the servicing and maintenance of passenger lifts and associated plant equipment to Professional Lifts Services Ltd (PLS). This decision was made to facilitate the payment of annual uplift provisions within the original contract agreement. Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, assured colleagues that a longer-term contract would be coming for consideration in the new year.