The Executive of Islington Council met on Thursday 22 January 2026, approving the proposed budget for 2026-27 and reviewing progress on the council's delivery plan. Significant investments in housing, green spaces, and resident support were highlighted, alongside updates on community initiatives and risk management.

Proposed Budget for 2026-27

The council's proposed budget for 2026-27 was presented, outlining a commitment to retaining and strengthening frontline services and investing in a more equal borough. A key element is the creation of a £5 million making it happen fund to deliver on residents' priorities. The budget also includes a £324 million increase in investment in council housing stock over the next 10 years, funded by higher rent settlements, aimed at improving homes across the borough. Furthermore, over £58 million will be spent on property acquisition to continue the successful buyback scheme, acquiring properties lost under the Right to Buy policy for council use, particularly for temporary accommodation. The council plans to create 1.5 hectares of green open space, equivalent to five times the size of the Emirates Stadium. The existing council tax support scheme, which ensures that the poorest households do not pay council tax and those above certain thresholds receive a reduced bill, will be maintained, with £28 million allocated to this. The income maximisation service, which has helped residents secure over £16 million, will also be protected.

Concerns were raised regarding potential negative consequences identified in the equalities report, despite an increase in income cost spending power. It was explained that Equalities Impact Assessments (EQIAs) are snapshots in time and will be developed as plans evolve, with mitigating circumstances being put in place. The vast majority of proposals were deemed to be either neutral or positive. A specific point of discussion was the deletion of vacant social worker posts, which was clarified as not impacting current service delivery as these posts were not in use.

The budget proposals are detailed in the Draft Budget Report - Executive 22.1.26, with further information in the Medium Term Financial Strategy 2026-27 to 2030-31, New General Fund Savings Proposals 2026-27 to 2030-31, Previously Agreed General Fund Savings 2026-27 to 2030-31, General Fund Management Actions 2026-27 to 2030-31, and GF Earmarked Reserve Balances.

Delivery Plan Progress Update

A report was presented on the council's progress against its delivery plan for the period of July to September 2025. The council is largely on track to deliver its priority work programmes, with strong performance across all its missions. Successes include securing £13.6 million per annum in additional benefits for Islington residents by the end of Q2. The council is also on track to deliver 1,000 apprenticeship starts between 2022 and 2026. The number of council properties in temporary accommodation was below target in Q2, indicating a positive outcome. Improvements were also noted in residents' experience with response times, and there has been a significant reduction in residual waste per household. The Q2 2025-26 Corporate Progress Performance Update provides further details.

Risk Management Strategy

A new risk management framework was introduced, which has already been reviewed by the Audit and Risk Committee. The strategy aims to embed risk management into the council's culture, ensuring all staff understand their roles. The Risk Management Strategy Report - Exec 220126 and its appendix were discussed.

We Are Cally Plan 2025-2028

The We Are Cally Plan 2025-2028 was presented, outlining ambitious goals across the council's five key missions. A dedicated community development officer will support this initiative, which is described as an excellent, innovative way to work that puts Cali on the map and leads the way in neighbourhood grassroots community development. The plan has been simplified from its first iteration to improve stakeholder engagement. The funding for this initiative was acknowledged from the Mayor's office. The Report - We Are Cally Plan 2025 and Draft We Are Cally Plan 2025 - 2028 were discussed, alongside previous versions such as the We are Cally Plan 2021-2024 and We Are Cally ToR September 2021.

Procurement Strategy for Developer Partner

A new procurement approach was proposed as part of a pluralistic, holistic approach to maximising the supply of housing, which includes building, buying, supporting downsizing, tackling housing fraud, and engaging with developers. This strategy aims to unlock housing supply and is a departure from previous methods. The strategy was initiated in 2023 and is designed to meet new social housing regulation requirements for stronger tenant voice, transparency, and accountability. It aligns with the council's broader approach to resident engagement, including tenancy audits and a restructure enabling one housing officer to cover up to 550 properties with smaller patch sizes. The Executive 260122 - Procurement Strategy for Developer Partner was considered.

RIP Strategy and Landlord Services

The council discussed its RIP Strategy and draft landlord services, which are in response to statutory requirements for stronger tenant voice, transparency, and accountability in social housing regulation. This strategy complements ongoing resident engagement efforts. The RIP Strategy and Draft RIP Landlord Services were reviewed.

Future Public Lighting Service

The future of the public lighting service was discussed, with a focus on understanding council assets and moving to an optimal arrangement. This is particularly relevant as the council moves towards neighbourhood health initiatives. The Future Public Lighting Service report was presented.

Finsbury Wellbeing Campus

A proposal for the Finsbury Wellbeing Campus was presented, described as a vital project in the heart of the borough, particularly a passion for the leader. The campus requires investment and care, especially following the development of a new GP surgery. This initiative is seen as particularly exciting for the council's move towards neighbourhood health. The Exec Finsbury Wellbeing Campus FINAL 12 Jan and Summary proposal slides were discussed.