Local government challenges
An analysis of the future direction of local government
Author: Tom Shakespeare - Sep 9, 2008
Devolution is currently the must-have accessory for all three major parties. Without it, their outfit looks outdated. But with it there is still a degree of scepticism as to whether local authorities are actually capable of delivering. The big issue which needs to be addressed is the reversal of the steady erosion of local financial autonomy and buoyancy. Solve these problems, and many other issues such as adult social care will be eased.
Others will be more difficult. Regional organisation in the form of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), has frequently been called into question over their increasing role in economic development, planning and regeneration - the traditional preserve of local authorities. Will the emerging frameworks such as multi-area agreements (MAAs) be successful enough to replace them? And then there is the local government performance framework.
Overall then, if all parties are committed to devolving more power to local areas, then they must also be committed to greater financial autonomy and local accountability. Only then will the country take local government seriously.
Go to the article here
Related Pages
New wave of city deals expected within weeks
Westminster launches consultation on new parishes
Regeneration in practice: lessons from across the pond
by By Alex Thomson, The Guardian - Local Government Network
Breathing new life into regeneration
by Alex Thomson, The MJ
Let the local authority clamour for more devolved power begin
by Steven Howell (in the Guardian, Public Leaders Network)
Local regeneration is about economic and social wellbeing
by Alex Thomson (in the Guardian, Local Government Network)
Crossing the border
Posted in Structures, Collaborations and Working Across Borders
What can elected mayors do for our cities?
Posted in Local Government Management and Organisation
Credit Where Credit's Due
Posted in Local Government Finance
A New Era for Council Housing?
Posted in Planning, Housing and Economic Development
Pensions: Infrastructure Investment Conference
[Jun 26, 2012]
Report Launch: Grow Your Own Way
[May 23, 2012]
Report Launch: Credit Where Credit's Due
[Mar 5, 2012]
Blue Labour and the Politics of Place
[Feb 9, 2012]
- "Localis is fast gaining a reputation for pre-empting the localist agenda, producing thought provoking research and practical policy ideas"Anthony Seldon, author and political commentator
- "Localis’ commitment to decentralisation crosses party boundaries, and their research illuminates policy problems with new practical thinking"Prof George Jones, LSE
- "Localis offers a great blend of a passion for innovation, grounded practical ideas and unswerving belief in the possibilities of local governance"Derek Myers, Chief Executive, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
