Leader's update - Friday 2 January 2026
Published: 02 January 2026
Firstly, I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and best wishes for the year ahead. As we step into 2026, it’s a great time to reflect on what we achieved together in 2025.
Across Redbridge, we’ve been delivering on the things that matter most: safer streets, cleaner neighbourhoods, caring for the vulnerable, and investing in our future.
Over the festive period, we’ve been celebrating that progress through the start of our Redbridge in Action campaign - and as we enter 2026, our focus remains the same: listening to residents and delivering on key priorities.
Over the past year, our direct work and engagement with government has delivered real results. Ministers have listened, and this has led to a significant increase in our funding. While this does not erase the impact of 14 years of cuts, it does mean we can continue to protect vital services and make improvements where they matter most.
As the most efficient council in London, we know the importance of spending wisely and will keep fighting for the resources our residents deserve. That includes continuing to press for access to the national infrastructure fund. When applications open, we’ll be ready with a strong case for investment in Broadmead Road Bridge – a project that will make a real difference to our borough.
Redbridge doesn’t run on services and projects alone; it runs on people. Every day, residents are looking out for one another, taking pride in where they live, and strengthening their communities. Look out for more as we shine a spotlight on our brilliant staff, local community, volunteers, and businesses across our social media and digital channels in 2026.
That community spirit is important as we enter this cold snap. There are many things that the council does, from gritting, to opening rest centres for rough sleepers, but you can also play your part – by checking in old elderly neighbours, reporting a rough sleeper so we can connect them with local services, or letting others know about our warm spaces in local libraries. You can read more on our website and please do share this information with your family and friends.
A quick reminder: waste and recycling collections have been adjusted over the festive period, with normal schedules resuming from Monday, 19 January. Please visit our website to check your revised dates. Real trees will also collected anytime between Monday 12 January and Friday 23 January so please ensure your tree is placed at the boundary of your property by 6am on Monday 12 January to avoid missing collection. Alternatively, local charity Haven House is collecting and recycling real Christmas trees from Monday 5 January to Wednesday 7 January for a small donation that goes directly towards their work. Collections must be pre-booked.
Finally, the new year is a great time to focus on your wellbeing. If you’ve been thinking about getting more active, now is the perfect opportunity to join one of our local leisure centres or simply get out and about to discover our beautiful Borough and stay healthy. Let’s make 2026 a year of positive change together!
This is Redbridge in Action. Every day. Done well. Have a great weekend.
Cllr Kam Rai,
Leader of Redbridge Council
