Today (Friday 16 January) Cheltenham Borough Council have published the draft housing revenue account and housing capital programme for 2026/27.
Tenants and leaseholders are invited to have their say and help shape the final budget ahead of its approval in February 2026. The draft budget and consultation information are available at cheltenham.gov.uk/hra-budget. Comments can be submitted via email to [email protected].
Like many social landlords the council continues to face finance challenges, and it is essential to plan carefully to a ensure balanced budget. This year no significant changes to the budget are being proposed, but a savings target has been identified to help to strengthen reserves, which are essential for managing risk.
To deliver the savings, the council will be carefully reviewing all expenditure throughout the financial year. Tenants and leaseholders can be assured that safety and compliance remain a top priority.
The capital programme helps to not only deliver much needed new homes but to ensure that existing stock meets legal requirements such as the decent homes’ standard. The proposals for 2026/27 reflect this.
Over the past year, the council has been surveying all its properties to ensure it has a good understanding of their condition. As the council moves into 2026/27, this information will be used to develop a revised planned maintenance programme. Tenants and leaseholders will be consulted on the proposals in due course.
Councillor Peter Jefferies, cabinet member for finance and assets, said: “Whilst we continue to face financial challenges our housing service remains a priority as set out in our corporate plan. This proposed budget ensures that we can continue to deliver vital housing services to those who need it the most”
Councillor Flo Clucas, cabinet member for housing and customer services, said: “Our tenants and leaseholders are at the core of what we do. The budget, how we spend money, reflects their needs and how we can meet them. Repairs and making sure our homes are safe, clean and mould free, are vitally important. That is why the proposed budget is open for consultation with our residents and tenants.”
The budget consultation runs until 31 January 2026. Feedback will be carefully considered before final proposals are presented to cabinet and full council in February.
For media enquiries contact communications: email [email protected] or telephone 01242 264231.
