News
EXCLUSIVE: Councils warn Whitehall of Brexit risks
Councils this week started to formally inform Whitehall about their Brexit risk assessments amid fears of crime spikes, public demonstrations and food bottlenecks.
London CIV announces new chief
A pension investment company has appointed Mike O’Donnell as chief executive.
Merseyside combined authority announces first precept
The Liverpool city region combined authority is to levy a council tax precept for the first time.
Council faces independent inquiry call
King’s Lynn & West Norfolk BC’s is facing calls for an independent inquiry into its partnership with one of the UK’s largest not-for-profit enterprise agencies.
LGA to build case for tourism tax
Smith Square is to commission further research as it looks to build a ‘very strong case’ for a tourism levy that could generate £12bn.
Tees Valley mayor's airport investment would total £75m
Tees Valley Combined Authority is being asked to commit £75m to the purchase of an airport, the business case has revealed.
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Opinion
Let's work together to solve the housing crisis
Brexit hasn't caused our divisions, but it has laid them bare, and nowhere is this more prevalent than in housing, says Jo Miller. We must do something different to ever have a chance of being a society that works for all, she adds
Rural councils should get the chance to influence voter ID rollout
Voter ID pilots due to take place across 11 councils this year including Craven DC will help provide an insight into the best way to ensure the integrity of the voting process in the future, says Paul Shevlin
When it comes to our cities there are reasons to be cheerful
There is little doubt that 2019 will be an historic and turbulent year, but there are some great opportunities for our cities to drive radical change and play a key role in post-Brexit Britain, says Cllr Judith Blake
As finance experts we need to stand firm in what we believe is right
John Betts' new year wish for finance staff is that the profession reinvigorates itself and starts to push back a bit against the death of expert knowledge and analysis
Give us fiscal freedom and devolution – not tighter controls
Jake Berry is right to look for answers to a disengaged electorate, but the idea that devolved finances should be achieved by just creating a regional Whitehall fiefdom is a localist’s nightmare, argues Heather Jameson
Be the talk of the town (hall)
The way we talk about councils really matters, says Dr Jonathan Carr-West – and it’s time to speak up for local government and reclaim the powerful origins of the word ‘municipal’
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Best Practice
Creating the space for businesses to flourish
Mike Dawson describes how Tewkesbury BC has delivered a UK-first in providing a business growth hub within its own offices where businesses can access support and advice
Analysis
Where do councils fit into the NHS plan?
Last week’s publication of the NHS Long Term Plan signals a fundamental shift towards community-based services and a focus on reducing health inequalities. Michael Burton looks at its implications for local government
Private sector
Construction firms make shortlist for high-value contracts
Six more firms will be in the running for multi-million pound construction projects after being added to the North West Construction Hub (NWCH).
Lawyers call for post-Brexit procurement rule changes
Legal experts have added their weight to calls for changes to procurement rules after Brexit.
Wirral reveals joint venture plans
Wirral MBC has unveiled plans for its joint venture to spur ‘community wealth building’ locally,