Wandsworth Council Leader-Elect sets out first steps

Councillor Aled Richards-Jones, leader of the incoming Conservative administration, has thanked residents for voting in the local elections and outlined as his top priority the need provide clear leadership for Wandsworth and to deal directly with the serious financial challenge facing the Council.

He pledged that his administration will act quickly to protect the services residents rely on, restore confidence in how the Council is run, and take immediate steps on the Borough’s finances.

Two reviews have been launched immediately – a Spending Review and a Constitutional Review.

The Spending Review will seek to address a £137 million budget gap – the largest in the council’s history – whilst protecting core neighbourhood services such as weekly bin collections, street sweeping and the removal of fly-tipping and graffiti. The review will examine all spending across the council, including major projects and future borrowing plans to identify immediate savings. Non-discretionary spending will be reviewed and most new recruitment paused.

The Constitutional Review will look at how the Council can operate in a more open, transparent and effective way. It will consider how scrutiny can be strengthened, procedures made clearer and how councillors from all parties and none can raise issues on behalf of residents at Council meetings.

Both reviews will report by the Council’s first ordinary meeting in July.

Aled Richards-Jones, Leader-Elect of the Council, said:

"My priority is straightforward - a well-run council that delivers for every resident.

"That means financial responsibility and transparent decision making. That is the foundation for the services residents rely on - like clean streets, safer neighbourhoods, and high-quality housing.

“I look forward to setting out the full programme at the Council’s first ordinary meeting in July, and to working constructively with all councillors to deliver it."

The full governance arrangements, including cabinet appointments, will be confirmed at the Annual General Meeting on 27 May 2026.

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Notes to editors:

2026 result: Conservative group 29 seats, Labour group 28 seats, Independent 1 seat. 30 required for outright majority.

A confidence and supply arrangement, to be reviewed annually has been agreed in principle with Independent Councillor Malcolm Grimston, who has represented West Hill ward since 1994.