Writing this Soapbox column over the last six months has been a curious experience. Being offered a platform from which to sound-off about current local government issues is flattering, but one can never be really sure if anyone actually reads it (yes they do – ed). Unlike in my day job as a council leader, there is very little direct feedback. Well, now it's come to an end, as I take up the role of LGA chairman, and move from being a commentator to a player on the field. Over the next three years, people will be passing comment on me and what I achieve. I am quite clear about people's expectations. Councillors and officers are desperate for less interference from the Government, and more autonomy to get on with the job they know how to do. I will be judged, ultimately, by how close we get to achieving it. There is now a new set of ministers to work with, several of whom have a local government background, or have worked with us in previous posts. It's probably the best line-up we could have asked for, although few of us know how the new prime minister regards local councils. Perhaps the best thing we have going for us is a new sense of confidence within the sector. We have taken on the challenge of the CPA Harder Test – and passed with flying colours. We have delivered our Gershon efficiency savings more confidently than any government department. And across the country, councils are rediscovering their talent for innovation. All this has led me to realise that the Government needs us as much as we need it. Bypassing local councils leads to inefficiency and under-delivery. Enabling us gets the best results by far. So, now it is time to turn the rhetoric of localism into the reality of devolution. Wish me luck!
