I am humbled and thrilled to be continuing as the LGA’s Independent Group Leader for two years – huge thanks for your support.
Congratulations to newly elected Deputy, Cllr Hannah Dalton, and returning Treasurer, Cllr Paul Woodhead, and a huge thank you to Cllr Clive Woodbridge who is stepping down after brilliant support of our group as Deputy.
With our executive and lead members, we look forward to increasing our strength through greater engagement of all our members – and there are more of us than ever.
“The Prime Minister is talking about levelling up and reorganisation as one”
I hope you enjoyed the LGA’s annual conference. There were many highlights, including our Green councillors presenting a motion at General Assembly to renew the LGA’s focus on climate issues ahead of the UN Climate Conference (COP26) in November, which passed overwhelmingly.
We welcomed Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson as our new President; a huge thanks to her predecessor, Lord Kerslake, who remains one of our valued Vice-Presidents. We also heard from the inspiring Baroness Lane-Fox in our group’s political plenary.
Looking forward, the Prime Minister is talking about levelling up and reorganisation as one, still favouring mayoral models and county deals. Do make sure you’ve seen Professor Colin Copus’ report, specially commissioned by our group, to see the impact on democracy, and that you are proactive in your area if changes are being discussed.
We are also tackling huge challenges in funding, climate change, care, planning, and creating a pandemic recovery plan that strengthens our economy, our environment and our communities.
Your contributions through the LGA, as we fight for local government, are vital.