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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

Local government reorganisation is a crisis of trust

By Cllr Kevin Bentley | 10 September 2026

Cllr Kevin Bentley says the Government’s approach to reorganisation has damaged finances, trust and confidence within councils.

PODCASTS

The local government reorganisation reset changes the recruitment brief

By Liam Young | 09 September 2026

Liam Young examines how councils can reset recruitment, retain talent and rebuild confidence after local government reorganisation uncertainty.

PODCASTS

Drowning in AI tide

By Dan Peters | 08 September 2026

Generative AI is making it easier than ever for residents to complain, object and request information – and councils are struggling to cope. Dan Peters inves...

PODCASTS

Time to think; space to lead

By Nicola Monk | 03 September 2026

Nicola Monk introduces the Local Government Executive Leadership Programme.

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