Councillors in England under the age of 75 and in receipt of allowances can now apply to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
The LGA has long campaigned for this change, which came into effect on 11 May. Councillors in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland already have access to the LGPS. An LGA spokesperson said: “Fair remuneration, including pension provision, is vital so that people from all walks of life feel able to stand for public office.”