Council Finances in Freefall

31 Jan 2026

Labour’s latest Medium-Term Financial Strategy report paints a grim picture for Waltham Forest. In September, the Labour-run Council revealed a future of rising council tax, deepening cuts and an increasing reliance on dwindling reserves.

This is a far cry from the bold promises Labour made in 2022: a "no cuts budget", new youth centres, a thousand new council homes, even a new lido. Yet those plans have quietly vanished. The lido was quickly shelved, and Labour’s pledge to rebuild Whipps Cross now won’t begin until at least 2034.

You can still sign our petition against Labour's delay to the rebuild of Whipps Cross at www.walthamforestlibdems.org.uk/campaign/whipps

Meanwhile, residents have faced rising council tax bills and cuts to council tax support, while Labour councillors voted to increase their own allowances. Now the Council warns of more cuts and tax hikes for three years running – and even suggests it may need a bailout.

Liberal Democrat campaigner Afzal Choudhry said, "Labour’s manifesto was unrealistic and undeliverable. In 2026, Waltham Forest deserves better. It’s time for real change."

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