‘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).
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).
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.
Following last month’s reshuffle, I would like to congratulate Rachel Maclean on her appointment as Housing Minister.
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 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.
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.
On 24 February, it will be the first anniversary of the seminal event of the past 12 months – President Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
After being delayed by months of Tory chaos, the second phase of levelling up funding has finally been announced.
It’s very rarely that I find myself agreeing with leading Conservatives, but I couldn’t agree more with West Midlands Mayor Andy Street in calling for the ‘begging bowl’ culture that forces areas to bid against each other for vital government funds to end.
The movement towards Independent and smaller parties is rising to take on the huge challenge of recovering confidence and trust in democracy.