Leader's update - Friday 13 March 2026
Published: 13 March 2026
Some weeks in Redbridge quietly remind us of the strength and warmth within our community, and this has certainly been one of them.
On Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of attending the Mayor’s Community Awards at Redbridge Town Hall. It’s always one of my favourite events of the year – a moment to celebrate the wonderful people who go above and beyond for others. People of all ages and backgrounds who truly represent the best of our borough, bringing neighbours together through their kindness and dedication. My congratulations go to all this year’s winners and nominees; your contributions make Redbridge a better place for everyone.
I’m also delighted that the brand new Hainault Skate Park at Forest Road Recreation Ground opens today. We promised to deliver this for the community, and we have delivered. This fantastic space has been shaped with the community at its heart, thanks to the ideas and feedback shared by residents during the consultation. Whether you’re stepping onto a skateboard for the first time or you’re an experienced skater looking for a new challenge, this park has been designed for all abilities and all ages to enjoy.
On Thursday morning, I joined our council enforcement teams, alongside the Metropolitan Police, on a dawn operation at a suspected brothel where beds in sheds were discovered. When we find out about this kind of activity, we work with the police to help stamp it out – but we need residents’ information to tackle it. If you have any intel or concerns, please report them directly to the police via 101, or call 999 if anyone is in immediate danger.
As part of our work on Redbridge’s Nature Emergency Action Plan, we are holding a community workshop next Wednesday, 18 March. We want to work with you to shape our plans to protect and restore nature locally. If you’d like to attend, please register your interest and take part – your experiences and ideas are invaluable.
Towards the end of next week, the spring edition of Redbridge Life will begin arriving through letterboxes across the borough. Inside, you’ll find details of the budget we set last week – a no‑cuts budget that invests in the services residents value most. This includes funding the Freedom Pass for our older and disabled residents, and significant investment in adults’ and children’s social care. You’ll also find stories celebrating inspirational women in our community, as well as updates on how we’re working to keep our streets, parks and neighbourhoods clean and safe.
As we head into the weekend, I want to wish a very happy Mother’s Day to everyone celebrating. I know many residents will also be celebrating Eid next week, so I want to wish you a peaceful and blessed Eid ul Fitr.
Take care,
Cllr Kam Rai
Leader of the Council
