Ealing Labour has published its manifesto ahead of local elections on 7 May 2026 as it seeks to retain control of Ealing Council after 16 years in power.
Running to 88 pages, the document sets out five headline priorities, including cutting living costs, tackling crime and antisocial behaviour, improving local areas, supporting the NHS and expanding opportunities for young people.
It also includes nine “missions” that the party says will shape how the council operates, from housing and economic growth to inequality and the climate emergency.
In the foreword, Councillor Peter Mason, leader of Ealing Labour, says the borough is entering a period of recovery after years of austerity. He writes: “After fourteen years of harsh Tory austerity, supported willingly by the Lib Dems, we have finally turned the page… With Labour in government locally and nationally, we are finally in recovery.”
According to Councillor Mason, increased government funding is now allowing the council to reinvest in neighbourhoods and services, particularly in areas residents have identified as priorities, such as the cost of living, crime and the condition of local streets.
He also points to what he sees as the borough’s strengths, describing Ealing as “the Queen of the suburbs, the king of industry and the heart and soul of London’s creative talent”, and says the aim is to ensure all parts of the borough benefit from new jobs and housing.
On council tax, the manifesto says it is lower in real terms than in 2010, but accepts that rises will be needed to meet growing demand. It states: “Council tax has to increase to support the growing demand for adult social care, services for children with additional needs, and temporary accommodation.”
Housing features prominently, with commitments to build more affordable homes, strengthen renters’ rights and continue efforts to reduce homelessness. The manifesto says more than 2,600 affordable homes have been started since 2022, alongside a fall in the number of households in temporary accommodation, with further action promised against rogue landlords.
Plans on crime include expanding CCTV coverage, introducing a new street enforcement team and stepping up action on fly-tipping, illegal HMOs and antisocial behaviour. The party also points to closer working with police and community groups, alongside a greater focus on prevention, particularly among young people.
Environmental proposals range from further investment in walking and cycling to tree planting and recycling, alongside longer-term work on climate resilience and low-carbon housing. There are also plans to expand green space and improve air quality.
On the economy, the manifesto highlights job creation, skills training and support for local businesses, with a focus on sectors such as green industries, life sciences and the creative economy. It also includes commitments to expand apprenticeships and support high streets through investment and regeneration.
Young people are another key focus, with proposals to expand youth services, childcare and education support, as well as improving pathways into employment and further education.
Full coverage of the Ealing Council local elections and candidates standing, can be found here.
