Agreement on a budget to Make it Happen for Islington

Last night (Thursday, 26 February), the council agreed a budget that focusses squarely on the issues that matter most to residents - safer streets, better shared spaces, more support for those who need it, and action to create a more equal future. 

The 2026/27 Budget includes the creation of a new £5m Making it Happen fund which, as revealed last week, will deliver real, tangible change, including action on anti-social behaviour, improved play spaces and parks, and a cleaner Islington.  

This investment sits alongside wider measures agreed in the budget to support local people and create a more equal borough. In total, £324m is set to be added to the budget for investing in current council housing, helping to ensure that residents have a safe place to call home.  

Meanwhile, more than £58m is to be spent on buying new council homes, to ensure properties go to those that need them most.  

The council will also maintain one of the country’s most generous Council Tax Support Schemes, a commitment of around £28m, which 24,500 households – approximately one in five Islington households – are expected to benefit from.  

Cllr Flora Williamson, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Finance and Performance, said: “We’re focused on turning residents’ priorities into action, to help create the more equal Islington that we all want to see.  

“This Budget delivers real, tangible improvements that people will see and feel – safer streets, better shared spaces, and support that helps families through tough times. 

“Through the Making it Happen fund and our wider investment, we’re working with communities to build a more equal borough and create real, tangible change for local people.” 

Further details on the Budget are available on the council’s website.