Strong Financial Grip Delivers Positive Results for RBWM

The Council’s latest financial results show a clear improvement in how its finances are being managed, with tighter control and better results across the board.

For 2025/26, the Council recorded a total underspend of £3.079m, meaning it spent less than planned while still delivering services. This result shows that budgets are now being managed more closely and effectively.

Because of this stronger position, the Council has been able to reduce its reliance on exceptional financial support. £1.251m of the underspend during the year has been used to lower this support to £39.162m -an important step towards long-term financial independence.

The Council’s overall financial health is also improving. The General Fund (reserve) balance is expected to be £16.827m (subject to audit), giving a more stable financial cushion to deal with future pressures.

Another key success is the delivery of savings from within services. The Council achieved £6.352m in savings, beating its target of £5.970m. This shows that plans to transform the way the Council works and reduce costs are not only delivered but outperforming expectations. Improvements and transformation work is undertaken in a planned way, and funded using capital receipts - these changes will help services while save money in the future.

On capital projects, the Council spent £23.670m out of a £64.147m budget. While some projects have been delayed, resulting in £39.076m being pushed into future years, this reflects a more realistic and controlled approach to managing large projects rather than overspending. There was also a small underspend of £1.401m on projects undertaken, again showing tight financial control.

In summary, these figures show a Council that is getting a firmer grip on its finances-spending carefully, delivering savings, reducing reliance on support, and building a more stable financial position for the future.