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PODCASTS

Our World is Local: Local government reorganisation with Simon Kaye

Simon Kaye, policy director at the think tank Reform, explores the competing visions for future council structures, the tug-of-war between county and district authorities, and the thorny issue of scale versus locality

In this episode of Our World is Local, Heather Jameson is joined by guest co-host Dan Humphreys, Cratus Group, for a deep dive into the hot topic dominating local government: Reorganisation.

Together with special guest Simon Kaye, policy director at the think tank Reform, they explore the competing visions for future council structures, the tug-of-war between county and district authorities, and the thorny issue of scale versus locality.

From boundary battles in Rutland to bold thinking on economies of context, this episode unpacks the political, practical, and cultural challenges facing local government reform. We also reflect on the roles of councillors, mayors, and strategic authorities in shaping public services and what true local leadership could look like in a reshaped system.

Usually hosted by Cratus Group CEO Nick Kilby and the Editor of The MJ, Heather Jameson, the ‘Our World is Local' podcast is a space to learn about the key figures in local government, highlighting the tremendous work they do for the communities they serve. You can find previous episodes here, on Spotify or wherever else you listen to your podcasts.

 

PODCASTS

Building local government's next generation of finance chiefs

By Ann McGauran | 12 November 2025

The Society of County Treasurers is launching a programme to help finance professionals leap ahead to become excellent organisational leaders. Ann McGauran r...

PODCASTS

EXCLUSIVE: Reorganisation should be last resort, says Unison boss

By Heather Jameson | 05 November 2025

Local government reorganisation should only be happening where there is ‘no choice’, general secretary of trade union Unison, Christina McAnea, has said.

PODCASTS

Unison's chief targets a fairer future for local government workers

By Heather Jameson | 05 November 2025

Unison leader Christina McAnea warns of worsening local government finances, inadequate pay and persistent equal pay injustices. She advocates for fair fundi...

PODCASTS

Local government reorganisation: Better late than never

By Michael Burton | 04 November 2025

While LGR is already proving a challenge, for many Labour ministers it also represents unfinished business from five decades ago, says Michael Burton.