RBKC Direct: On council tax, health service budget problems and keeping the borough clean and blooming

Council tax is something we have to pay. In 2003 the Government commissioned a review of how local government is funded that concluded there was scope for improvement. It set up a further independent inquiry into local government funding that will examine in more detail the options for change.

In this issue of RBKC Direct, we explain the possible changes to the system and how the Council is trying to defend residents against large tax increases.

Shockwaves are still reverberating around the borough following the news that the Kensington and Chelsea Primary Care Trust (PCT) need to reduce spending by £9.1 million. Widespread cuts to health services were talked about as it embarked on a recovery plan. But why are the cutbacks needed, what services might we lose and how will the Council safeguard the needs of residents?

The Council has just renewed its refuse and recycling collection partnership with SITA UK. The new deal means the borough's unique twice-weekly refuse and recycling service stays; there are more street sweepers on the ground than ever; and 24 hour street cleansing has been extended.

But the battle to keep on top of the 100,000 tonnes of rubbish produced in the borough each year does not stop there. The Council is getting smarter, and sometimes tougher, in the way it manages the borough's mess.

More trees, shrubs, flowers, better landscaping, less litter, graffiti and vandalism - these all make for a better city life. Last year's silver at the Britain in Bloom awards highlighted Kensington and Chelsea's impressive track record in improving all of these elements.

Now the borough has made it to the Britain in Bloom finals again - and the Council wants to do better than silver.