The MJ/LGiU survey exposes the growing gap between the public’s expectations and councils’ ability to deliver – with nearly two-thirds of respondents (61%) providing only ‘a little bit more’ than their statutory obligations.
How can broadband access be spread to cover all areas, especially deprived sectors for whom access may be too expensive? This was one of the key questions posed to a round table hosted recently by The MJ and 6G Internet at The MJ Future Forum North.
Northamptonshire CC chief executive Theresa Grant spoke to The MJ about how one goes about tackling the most challenging budget in local government.
Incoming chief executive of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council Graham Farrant thinks his new job to deliver a ‘really modern leading local authority’ is the best one available in local government right now, as Ann McGauran reports
The first chief executive of the new unitary Dorset Council Matt Prosser talks to Heather Jameson about the process of bringing three ‘very different’ local authorities together to form one sustainable council for the future.
In a round table hosted by Gatenby Sanderson, district council leaders considered the question: ‘The 21st century councillor – what skills do modern members need to equip them for the challenges ahead?’
Ann McGauran looks at the potential implications of a further empowered North of England, as suggested by Northern Powerhouse minister Jake Berry
How can local authorities best harness the talents of their future workforce – and could councils be replaced by entirely new sorts of organisations? Ann McGauran reports on a recent round table debate hosted by Penna considering the big questions
Martin Swales, the new president of SOLACE, talks to Heather Jameson about his plans to use his two-year term to draw on the expertise across the membership and build a stronger influence across Whitehall
Exclusive: A new survey of London councillors shows digital exclusion is seen as their biggest challenge – and suggests there is some way to go before most residents fully trust public sector bodies to handle data securely. Ann McGauran reports
The disparity in cuts to real term spending throughout England and in London demonstrates the postcode lottery effect of austerity, says Ciara Cook
As the Autumn Statement lays out tough targets on debt reduction, Michael Burton examines the feasibility of planned spending cuts and considers whether austerity is the ‘only game in town’.
Jonathan Breckon from Nesta explains why the Alliance for Useful Evidence has launched Manifesto Check with the The Conversation UK, using university-based academic experts to analyse the political parties' election promises and commitments.
Matthew Colledge outlines how the world of commerce should be given guidance on delivering the promise of devolution with civic partners.
