Leader's update - Friday 30 October 2026

Published: 30 October 2026 Councillor Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council

Dear Neighbours,

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of attending the Diwali reception at 10 Downing Street, hosted by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

It was a great opportunity to celebrate Diwali and hear from a range of speakers reflecting on the values of hope, unity and service that are at the heart of the festival. With Diwali just around the corner, it was a wonderful way to continue the build-up to the celebrations, with many residents across Redbridge preparing to mark the festival with family, friends and their local communities.

With Diwali and Bonfire Night taking place over the next week or so, I know some residents will be planning to let off fireworks or attend a display. I want everyone to enjoy themselves safely. We work closely with the London Fire Brigade to promote firework safety and encourage residents to attend organised public displays wherever possible. If you do choose to celebrate at home, please follow the relevant safety guidance and be considerate of neighbours, pets and those who may find loud fireworks distressing.

There was significant news from Westminster this week, with the Chancellor, John Healy, delivering his first Budget.

At a time when many households are still feeling the pressure of rising living costs, there were a number of announcements that I know will be welcome news for residents and businesses. In Redbridge, 77,630 households in council tax bands A to D will receive a £100 payment directly into their bank accounts to help with energy bills this winter.

The Government has also extended the removal of VAT on energy bills and announced an end to standing charges being added to household bills. There was encouraging news for businesses too, with measures aimed at making it easier to start and grow a business, helping to support jobs and investment. For local areas like ours, additional powers for local leaders should help ensure decisions and funding are better aligned with local priorities.

Looking ahead, I would like to remind residents about the Remembrance events taking place across Redbridge over the coming weeks.

Remembrance gives us an opportunity to pause, reflect and honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served. I would warmly encourage residents to join us at one of the events taking place across the borough, or to take a moment to reflect in their own way.

Events are being held at:

• St Mary's Church Hall, South Woodford

• Ilford War Memorial, Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park

• Hainault War Memorial, Manford Way, Chigwell

• Wanstead War Memorial, High Street, Wanstead

• Fairlop Waters Country Park

• Snaresbrook Memorial Garden

More details on all services can be found on the Vision RCL website.

Residents attending the Ilford War Memorial service, or travelling through the Newbury Park area on Sunday morning, should be aware that temporary road closures will be in place, including brief closures of the A12 Eastern Avenue during the ceremony and parade. Please allow extra time for your journey.

My thanks go to everyone involved in organising these events and helping to ensure that we continue to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Have a great weekend.

Kam