Carnival budget could face cuts, council warns

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) is considering cuts to funding for public toilets at the Notting Hill Carnival due to an £82 million budget shortfall. Typically, the council contributes £1 million yearly to facilitate the event, but this year it provided an additional £230,000 to cover extra costs, including toilet facilities. Cem Kemahli, RBKC's finance lead, stated that while the carnival is a valuable asset to the borough, difficult budgeting decisions are necessary. Labour councillor Claire Simmons stressed that toilets should be viewed as essential services, not luxuries. RBKC has already initiated plans to reduce council tax relief for vulnerable residents and is assessing community service funding.

The council also plans to lease office space and implement a voluntary redundancy scheme. The government has proposed funding reforms that could further impact council budgets. Despite financial pressures, RBKC commits to collaborating with carnival organizers to ensure a successful event.