The Council meeting on 15 April 2026 saw extensive debate on the Council's performance and future direction, with a significant portion of the meeting dedicated to a motion regretting the impact of the Labour government on Bexley residents. The meeting also included discussions on the Council's budget, community safety strategy, and the appointment of a new Monitoring Officer, alongside tributes to councillors not seeking re-election.

Motion Regretting Labour Government's Impact on Bexley

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a motion proposed by Councillor Richard Diment, seconded by Councillor Howard Jackson, regretting the impact of the Labour government elected in July 2024 on Bexley residents. The motion was debated extensively, with councillors from both sides of the chamber presenting arguments for and against the Labour government's policies and their effect on the borough.

Councillor Diment, in proposing the motion, outlined a series of criticisms against the Labour government, including tax increases, a perceived war on business, subdued economic growth, and a callous failing in the treatment of the vulnerable, citing cuts to winter fuel payments. He also criticised the government's approach to defence, immigration, policing, and planning policy, arguing that these had led to disillusionment and a failure to deliver on election promises.

Councillor Jackson, seconding the motion, echoed these sentiments, focusing on specific issues such as the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), the winter fuel allowance, and the closure of police station front desks. He also highlighted concerns about the fair funding formula, arguing that Bexley had been treated unfairly.

Conversely, Councillor Stefano Borella, Leader of the Labour Group, strongly refuted the motion's premise, arguing that the Labour government was bringing about positive change and highlighting its achievements, such as lifting the two-child benefit limit, introducing the Renters' Rights Act, and increasing the National Living Wage. He accused the Conservative administration of misrepresenting the government's actions and of having a poor record during their time in power.

Councillor Zainab Asunramu spoke against the motion, arguing that the Council should focus on local issues rather than political posturing ahead of an election. She highlighted the importance of addressing violence against women and girls and investing in youth provision, areas she felt were being neglected in favour of debating national politics.

Councillor Andrew Curtois also spoke against the motion, detailing the negative economic impacts of the Labour government's policies on local businesses and families.

Councillor Jeremy Fosten, speaking as a newly elected councillor, argued that the motion was inappropriate for a Council meeting, particularly in the pre-election period, and that the Council should not act as a mouthpiece for a political party. He defended the Labour government's achievements, including lifting children out of poverty and introducing employment rights protections.

Following a lengthy debate, the motion was put to a roll call vote and was carried.

Budget and Financial Plans

The Council agreed a balanced budget for 2026/27, with a General Fund budget of £271.950m and a Contingency Provision of £5.000m. This budget includes a 2.99% increase in the Council Tax share and a 2% increase in the Adult Social Care Precept, totalling a 4.99% rise. The Council also agreed a Capital Programme of £145m, with significant investments planned for highways maintenance, playground improvements, libraries, community centres, and assistive technology.

An amendment moved by Councillor Stefano Borella, proposing a more extensive housing strategy, increased investment in affordable housing, and a borough-wide selective licensing scheme, was lost. The amendment also sought to introduce a £57.50 annual parking charge for councillors and align fees and charges with the calendar year.

Bexley Community Safety Partnership Strategy 2026-2030

The Council approved the Bexley Community Safety Partnership Strategy 2026-2030. This strategy outlines the partnership's priorities and guiding principles for the next four years, focusing on areas such as domestic abuse, hate crime, and crime reduction.

Appointment of Monitoring Officer

The Council approved the recommendation in the exempt appendix to Item 13, concerning the appointment of a Deputy Director, Legal and Democratic Services (Monitoring Officer). The press and public were excluded from this part of the meeting due to the exempt nature of the information.

Tributes to Retiring Councillors

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to paying tribute to councillors not seeking re-election. Councillor David Leaf, Leader of the Council, and Councillor Stefano Borella, Leader of the Labour Group, along with other councillors, delivered speeches acknowledging the service and contributions of numerous councillors who were stepping down. Tributes were made to both Conservative and Labour councillors, highlighting their dedication, experience, and impact on the borough. Many councillors shared personal anecdotes and expressed gratitude for their colleagues' service.

Other Matters

• Roads and Pavements: The Council's commitment to highways maintenance was highlighted, with £30m allocated over the next four years. Bexley's roads were noted as being among the top ten in England for condition, according to Department for Transport figures.
• Housing: The Council continues to face pressure in the private rented sector due to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Despite this, the Housing Service reported stable homelessness prevention and relief activity, with reductions in emergency accommodation usage and rent arrears. Rough sleeping numbers have also fallen.
• Children's Services: The Erith Family Hub has transitioned to Best Start in Life Family Hub Erith, strengthening its focus on early development and narrowing inequalities. The Leaving Care Service launched The Vibe, a drop-in service for young people transitioning to independent living. Bexley has also been selected as a 'Kinship Zone' pilot to strengthen support for kinship carers.
• Community Safety: Bexley remains one of the safest boroughs in London, with the third lowest crime rate. The Community Safety Partnership continues to work on priorities including domestic abuse, hate crime, and serious violence.
• Libraries and Community Centres: The Council is investing £2m more in libraries and £1m more in community centres as part of its commitment to improving community facilities.
• Economic Growth: The new Economic Growth Strategy was adopted, aiming to attract investment and create jobs. A new Cultural Strategy was also approved, recognising the value of Bexley's arts and culture.
• Transport: The Council is continuing to monitor the Superloop bus route SL3 and is pursuing further Transport for London (TfL) funding for complementary measures. Southeastern has announced the reinstatement of off-peak services on the Sidcup to Abbey Wood Loop Line.
• SEND Services: An interim SEND monitoring inspection by Ofsted and the CQC found that the local area partnership had taken effective action and made reasonable progress in addressing areas for improvement.
• Customer Experience: The Council is continuing to improve its digital services, with a focus on enhancing customer journeys and increasing self-service options.

The meeting concluded with the formal closing of business and thanks to all involved.