Leader's message

It's been a busy start to 2025, and it is fantastic to see some bright sunshine as we welcome Spring, and wonderful to be out and about the borough meeting neighbours and hearing what matters to you.

Recently, we came together to honour those lost during the pandemic at our Covid Memorial Event at Valentines Park, an emotional reminder of our community's strength. We remain deeply grateful for the sacrifices of NHS workers, key workers, and volunteers who carried us through the darkest days.

We also gathered today to commemorate Sir Jack Petchey, whose legacy continues to inspire our borough's youth to achieve their full potential through his foundation's work. Sir Jack's businesses had their offices in Redbridge for many years, and he was a resident of Fairlop Ward, something we're incredibly proud of.

As the weather improves, please explore and enjoy our beautiful, award-winning green spaces, two of which rank in the green flag top 10 nationally. Now might be the time to start spring cleaning your front gardens too, as we look forward to community celebrations like VE Day street parties, building on the fantastic street parties we have held for several years in Redbridge.

Despite financial pressure, including a £162 million funding reduction since 2010, we're protecting and enhancing essential services. IMPOWER recognises us as London's most efficient council. Every penny of your council tax is invested in vital services – we're maintaining weekly bin collections, improving social care, creating safer streets, and building affordable homes.

You can help us by reporting issues like fly-tipping, antisocial behaviour, and vandalism on the Love Clean Streets App or Report It page. Your vigilance helps keep Redbridge a safe, clean community.

Thank you for your support. I am keen to keep residents, local businesses and partners updated on the work of the council and what I have been up to as Leader of the Council, and I intend to make this a regular update. I hope you find it useful.