Voluntary sector support keeps us safe
It has been a summer break we needed, but in the shadow of dreadful disasters in Haiti and Greece, and terror and sadness in Afghanistan.
Councillor Marianne Overton MBE
Strength in our greater numbers
I am humbled and thrilled to be continuing as the LGA’s Independent Group Leader for two years – huge thanks for your support.
Taking a local approach
Friends, this is my last column ahead of the local elections and our group elections that follow.
Elections without a doorstep campaign?
As I write, an election is looming.
A packed agenda for the year ahead
Happy new year! I hope everyone was able to take a break over the festive period.
An influence for good
More than 100 councillors attended the annual LGA Independent Group Conference and delayed annual general meeting in November.
Spending Review falls short
Our Independent Group members have been very clear on what is needed from the Spending Review, starting with certainty. Thus, the Chancellor’s statement covering only one year falls short.
Working together as Independents
As local lockdowns continue to be put in place, including the whole of Wales, we have again asked the Government to ensure local leaders are at the forefront of decision-making – something ministers have agreed and need to uphold.
Deliver on devolved powers and money
September began with a growing number of challenges marching towards us – a forced reorganisation, planning numbers that make little sense, sweeping changes to the planning system that fail to address any current problems in the system, the ongoing fight for funding, a care crisis, climate emergency – and all at a time of a pandemic.
Planning ‘does not prevent development’
August was dominated by new government proposals on planning, scene setting for a White Paper on recovery and reorganisation, and the school exams fiasco.