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The Government's plans to boost the economy of the regions have been called into question by local government leaders. The Local Government Association (LGA) has questioned the accountability of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), which will take on the responsibility for drawing up a regional strategy on behalf of local authorities. LGA chairman, Sir Simon Milton, said: ‘Serious questions need to be asked about the future accountability of Regional Development Agencies, and how they can be made accountable to local people for decisions about regional planning strategies.' The association has vowed to ‘lead a strong and visible debate' on the issue. Under the plans revealed by local government minister, John Healey, this week, top-tier councils will have a duty to assess the economy of their area. These would then form the basis of a strategy, to be drawn up by the RDA, covering housing, planning, skills, transport and regeneration, in a bid to boost local prosperity. Councils would lead on the project using pooled funding, and cash delegated from the RDA. RDAs would be accountable to a regional forum of local authority leaders, the details of which would be decided locally. Ministers are also in discussions with the Commons over the formation of new regional select committees. Mr Healey helped kick-off the review while he was a minister at the Treasury. He has since followed its progress into the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG). Writing in this week's The MJ, Mr Healey says councils will ‘play a central role in supporting economic growth' under the new plans. However, the RDAs will have a ‘strategic role, working closely with local organisations – including councils – to deliver the best for their regional economies'.

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WHITEHALL

Sir Simon queries new role for RDAs

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