Welcome to the spring edition of the Bexley Magazine. In this issue we have set out details of our plans to invest millions of pounds more in the local services that matter to you as part of our budget for 2026 to 2027 and over the next four years.

Despite the Government cutting the grants we receive and reducing our share of national funding, I am extremely proud that we have been able to set a balanced budget that invests in the future of our great Borough. This means we plan to invest £30m more in improving our highways over the next four years, we are putting £2.5m into improving our playgrounds and parks, and £2m to improve our local libraries.

Our strong track record of good financial management and living within our means has ensured that we can continue to invest in the services our residents rely on with more funding going to support adults and children with social care needs and disabilities.

While other Councils are cutting back, we have a plan to transform our services and innovate. In the decisions that we take, we never forget that is your Council Tax money that we are spending, which is why we are committed to continuing to deliver value for money. The Government has let Bexley down, but rest assured, we are on your side.

This magazine also features an update on our wide-ranging SEND services for children and young people within the Borough, a look at how we invest in our roads and how roadworks are managed, our important new Economic Growth Strategy and details of how we support our town centres. Backing our businesses to survive and thrive in these challenging times is a priority for this Council.

We have also featured key election deadline dates. This year will see local elections on Thursday 7 May. Make sure you are registered to vote in person or by post and that you remember to have your say.

Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources and Transformation, Cllr David Leaf