Stepping up to the challenge of COVID-19
I continue to be touched by the heart-warming stories I hear about how the local government family has responded to the greatest challenge we face for a generation.
lga chairman
Working tirelessly for our communities
In the middle of what is an unprecedented public health crisis affecting all of us, I want to thank every councillor and council member of staff for their continuing hard work on behalf of their local communities.
More freedom on finances
Our submission to the Treasury sets out how the Budget can unlock the ambitions of councils to further deliver high-quality services, maximise the growth potential of our local areas and help the Government deliver on national priorities.
Improving building safety
More than two and a half years after 72 people lost their lives, the inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire has started its second phase, looking at how the building came to be covered in flammable cladding during its refurbishment.
Delivering for our communities
Now that we have a new government in place, it is absolutely vital that we get on with delivering on the key issues and opportunities for our communities
Dealing with the unexpected
It has been heart-breaking to see people forced out of their homes by the extensive flooding across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.
Reigniting the devolution debate
It’s been two years since the last new devolution deal was agreed in England – so the promise, in the Queen’s Speech, of a White Paper on the subject is encouraging.
Spending Round delivers certainty
The Chancellor’s Spending Round has provided councils with much of the certainty they need about how they will be funded next year – as well as £3.5 billion for our vital local services.
Brexit, devolution and funding: the challenges ahead
With his premiership now well under way, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has some huge challenges ahead of him, not least Brexit.
Preparing for the future
It is a great honour to be the new Chairman of the LGA, and I enjoyed meeting many of you at our annual conference in Bournemouth in early July.