It was brilliant to see so many of you in sunny Bournemouth for the LGA’s annual conference 2026.
Between the sea breeze and the packed session halls, there was a positive buzz at this year’s conference.
Joined by ministers and secretaries of state from across government, colleagues came together to share ideas, showcase innovation and explore this year’s theme, ‘From neighbourhoods to nations – building lasting futures locally’.
One of the most insightful sessions came from Baroness Louise Casey, who joined us to discuss the vital work of the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care.
Her sobering yet constructive assessment of the challenges facing the sector sparked conversations among delegates about how we can transform delivery of care, improve outcomes for residents and build sustainable services for the future.
Labour also nominated a new LGA Chair, which was formalised at the General Assembly. We are looking forward to working with our friend Cllr Eamonn O’Brien in this role.
We have no doubt he will do us all proud as he steps up to the responsibility of representing the whole of local government on the national stage.
“We discussed the political and policy priorities for the year ahead, including housing, LGR and local growth”
At our Labour Group meetings at conference, we welcomed Lucy Powell MP and Baroness Taylor, Minister for Housing and Local Government in the Lords, as well as senior colleagues from the Labour Party.
We discussed the political and policy priorities for the year ahead, including housing, local government reorganisation and driving forward local growth.
We left Bournemouth feeling refreshed after three days of sun, strategy and solidarity.
Our congratulations also go to Andy Burnham MP on his election as Leader of the Labour Party, and warmly welcome Angela Rayner MP back to her role as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
We look forward to working with the Prime Minister and his new Cabinet to strengthen local government and deliver lasting change for communities in every part of the country.