Local democracy
Reinvigorating local democracy
A conference in Newport this week looked at the future of democracy. Will Godfrey emphasises the city’s ‘proud history of making its voice heard’ and says the role and influence of local government is now more important than ever
The third option
Deliberative democracy is helping bridge the gap between people and policy says Reema Patel
Local democracy reporters aid transparency
The Local Democracy Reporting Service – the new BBC scheme that attempts to fill the gap in the reporting of local democracy issues – is already having an impact, reports Dan Peters
Democracy can only ever be the winner
Head of Local News Partnerships at the BBC, Matthew Barraclough, on a new project adding another layer of council scrutiny.
Say ‘no’ to municipal censorship
When grassroots activists proactively engage in the democratic process, they should be allowed to do so without municipal censorship, argues Claire Fox
Voter ID: Sledgehammer to crack a nut
New analysis from the Electoral Reform Society shows the Government’s voter ID trials were far from successful, writes Jess Garland.
Councillors welcome delay to Labour democracy review
Councillors have welcomed a Labour Party decision to postpone the local government side of its democracy review amid concerns that some proposals were ‘completely unworkable’.
Burnham: Devolution is our best hope
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has argued that devolution ‘offers the best hope of making Brexit work for the regions and uniting our uncertain nation’.
Ups and downs for districts
Ian Miller gives an overview of the latest decisions and indecisions to affect district councils.
What is the strategy for local government?
Lawrence Conway says the sector needs a unified strategy that is sustainable with forthright leadership and a focus on its goals and objectives.
Why ‘good’ consultation is key
The importance of public consultation, especially in the local government arena, can not be underestimated – but it often is. Politicians on a national and local level can survive or fail based on the effectiveness of this process, as John Tizard explains.
Public votes proposed in civil society strategy
Communities could be put in charge of facilities and decision-making put to public votes under proposals published by the Government today.
The localism effect
Comparing the approaches of an English and German councils, Peter Eckersley argues closer relations between tiers of government can empower local authorities to pursue more ambitious policies and maintain greater control over decision-making.
Christchurch reorganisation challenge defeated
Christchurch BC may launch an appeal after a High Court judge today refused its challenge to local government reorganisation plans.
Localis calls for 'big bang' devolution approach
Think-tank Localis has called for a ‘big bang approach’ to recast the relationship between Whitehall and councils.
In defence of voter ID
The subject of voter ID has divided many people, but Bob Neill calls for those sceptical about reform to catch up with the rest of the modern world.
Hillingdon wins social housing High Court battle
Councils’ power to determine how social housing tenants are prioritised has been strengthened by a landmark court ruling in favour of a London borough.
May to back north of Tyne combined authority
Prime minister Theresa May will today give the go-ahead for the creation of the north of Tyne combined authority.
Councils bring it home
Diary admits it was excited when it heard whispers that football was coming home.
Brokenshire considering new devolution models
James Brokenshire is considering new models of devolution as he seeks to extend further powers to local areas, the communities secretary has insisted.