Challenges and opportunities
With less than a week to go until the 1 May local elections in England, I wanted to put on record my thanks to all those colleagues who are standing for re-election or standing down.
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The best start in life
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson’s welcome announcement of the first 300 new school-based nurseries responds to a manifesto commitment and a pressing need – ensuring children get the best start in life. This deeply resonates with local leaders.
The biggest power grab in decades
The Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill will do little to get spades in the ground and increase England’s housing supply.
Auto enrol children for free school meals
I was delighted to see that another Liberal Democrat-led council’s scheme helping more than 2,400 children receive a free school meal has been made permanent.
People need a healthy home and environment
With the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in its committee stage, we have to counter the myth that there is the economy or the environment.
Empowering councils to thrive
Local government is the beating heart of our communities. It is the councillor knocking on doors, the staff working tirelessly behind the scenes and the many services that shape the day-to-day lives of people across the country.
A sustainable future for Welsh local government
Councils are the foundation of our communities. From providing social care and housing to maintaining roads and parks, they play an essential role in daily life. However, as demands on local services grow, we must consider what it is local government needs to remain sustainable for the future.
Devolution must strengthen police accountability
The Government has big plans for more devolution in England, to empower local decision-making on behalf of communities.
A vision for future growth
This year’s Convention of the North provided a landmark moment for leaders, industry and policymakers in the region to come together as one and set out the North’s vision for future growth.
A culture of success
In January, North Tyneside’s Children’s Services were graded outstanding in all areas.