Title

COMMERCIALISM

MPs launch inquiry on local authority commercial investment

An inquiry examining investments in commercial property by councils has been launched by the public spending watchdog.

An inquiry examining investments in commercial property by councils has been launched by the public spending watchdog.

With figures showing local authorities spent £6.6bn on commercial properties in the past three years, the Public Accounts Committee is also calling for evidence on commercial skills in local government.

The committee will also question officials from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government on how it formally monitors commercial activity and long-term exposure to risk.

The committee is also exploring how the coronavirus pandemic is impacting on local government finances. 

COMMERCIALISM

Breckland Council: The magic of the ordinary brings us all together

By Steve James | 14 April 2026

It is the everyday quiet work of districts that builds trust between residents and council and contributes to community cohesion, says Steve James.

COMMERCIALISM

Supporting sustainable and low-risk local authority projects through site accommodation

14 April 2026

From energy efficiency to simplified procurement, how local authorities can make site accommodation work harder for sustainability goals and risk management ...

COMMERCIALISM

Councils can't deliver better public understanding of AI without resource

By Susan Oman | 10 April 2026

Better AI awareness is needed both inside and beyond the council in its communities, says Susan Oman.

COMMERCIALISM

Corporate Peer Challenge: Going boldly on in Bristol

By Nick Hibberd | 09 April 2026

Bristol’s Corporate Peer Challenge recognised a deeply embedded culture of activism, diversity and civic participation, but challenged the city to be bolder ...

Popular articles by Laura Sharman