A balanced budget has been agreed for 2024/25 that delivers high quality services and support for those who need it most in the face of unprecedented financial challenges beyond the council’s control.
Last night (4 March), councillors approved an ambitious package of measures despite stubbornly high inflation, increases in demand and soaring costs alongside 14 years of government cuts that leaves the council with an estimated £143m less in real terms.
With many councils nationwide effectively facing bankruptcy, strong financial management means Haringey is able to support local people by investing in adult social care, children’s services and homelessness prevention with more than £25m in total.
The major housebuilding programme will drive forward, as well as substantial improvements to existing council homes to bring them up to a decent standard and improve their energy efficiency.
The council will pursue its climate and air quality goals by creating more school streets, increasing tree planting and installing more cycle lanes and bike hangars.
In addition, the borough’s fantastic libraries, children’s centres, parks, leisure facilities and youth services will continue to be resourced.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Peray Ahmet, said: “This budget has been developed in the most challenging of circumstances with the council hit by 14 years of government underfunding as well spiralling costs and demand for services.
“Our budget not only balances the books when many other councils are finding it difficult to do so but renews our commitment to support those who need it most by continuing our year-on-year investment in adult social care, children’s services and preventing homelessness.
“Local authorities across the political spectrum have campaigned for government to provide fairer funding and longer-term settlements. If the government are unwilling to do so, then we will step up for the people of Haringey.
“I would like to thank all the residents who participated in the budget consultation, whose feedback shaped our thinking and approach. Our budget invests in the local services that our communities value and in Haringey's future as a fairer, greener borough.”
Value for money will be delivered by a number of measures including driving down spend on agency staff, consultants, and senior managers, as well as tightening procurement procedures.
The budget includes a 2.99 per cent increase in council tax with an additional 2 per cent precept for adult social care. This is offset with a comprehensive discount system for low-income households, while owners of homes left empty for 12 months will pay double council tax to help safeguard vital council services.
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