The most trusted form of government
Can I send a big thank you to those standing down as councillors this May. You have made a real difference to thousands of people across the country.
group leaders
Bringing impartiality to sector-led support
The recent Corporate Peer Challenge (CPC) on the LGA (see first 682) highlighted the value of its sector support offer.
Key Budget wins for local government
In advance of May’s local elections, local government secured key wins in last month’s Budget, with many of these resulting from continuous lobbying by the LGA and Conservative councillors over recent months. In 2019, our party committed to delivering devolution to people and places across the UK.
Nothing in the Budget for important public services
Due to the revolving door of Chancellors in 2022, Jeremy Hunt’s Budget was the first in 18 months.
‘Close the door behind you’, LEPs told
We had some doubts about the abolition of regional development agencies by the then Coalition Government, which led to the creation of local enterprise partnerships (LEPs).
Rising number of Independents
As the local elections approach, for many it is a time for planning and focusing on local issues, as well as an expectation of the effect of national politics on the outcomes that we will see on 5 May.
Investing in culture
Following last month’s reshuffle, I would like to congratulate Rachel Maclean on her appointment as Housing Minister.
Take back control of council funding
There has been a lot of focus recently on oversight of councils, in light of serious financial failings at some councils, including Thurrock, Croydon, and Northamptonshire – all of which resulted in formal intervention from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
Bus routes hanging by a thread
Bus operators face a double whammy when the Bus Recovery Grant, used to support certain routes when the pandemic resulted in passenger numbers plunging, finishes, alongside the £2-a-ride deal.
Identifying tensions in planning policies
The proposals to change our planning rules have been described by some as a dramatic return to ‘old school’ planning, with stronger control from central government.