Havering Council approved a 4.99% increase in monthly resident bills, with 2% specifically allocated for adult social care. For an average Band D property, this means an added cost of £9 per month, raising annual costs to £1,823. The council faces significant financial challenges, projecting a £71 million shortfall, while housing costs continue to escalate. Leaders are concerned about national trends impacting local budgets and stress the urgent need to address the housing crisis through new developments, albeit with ongoing delays. Measures include budget cuts and increased rents to manage expenses.
Havering’s residents will face a monthly bill increase of 4.99%, primarily to address the alarming shortage of housing and rising social care costs.
The council's growing deficit, estimated at 71 million for the coming year, underscores the significant financial pressures faced by local authorities.
Council member Chris Wilkins expressed disappointment over the government’s 40 million funding, stressing that national pressures are driving other councils to similar predicaments.
Labour leader Keith Darvill pointed out that addressing the housing crisis must be a top priority, as families in urgent need are often accommodated in costly hotels.
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