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PODCASTS

Our World Is Local: Prof John Denham

In this episode of our monthly podcast, hosts Nick Kilby and Heather Jameson are joined by Professor John Denham, former secretary of state for communities and local government.

In this episode of our monthly podcast, hosts Nick Kilby and Heather Jameson are joined by Professor John Denham, former secretary of state for communities and local government.

The trio discuss the priorities for an incoming government, focusing on the challenges faced by local authorities, including financial pressures and the need for a clear vision for local government in the future. Prof Denham shares insights on the importance of empowering local councils to shape public spending, reflecting on his experience with the Total Place initiative. They also delve into how central government can support local innovation and the shifting landscape of public trust in news and communication.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on local governance, public service transformation and much more.

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 listen to the previous episodes ⁠⁠on Spotify here and wherever else you listen to your podcasts.

PODCASTS

Woking-owned ThamesWey debt exceeds £600m

By Martin Ford | 20 April 2026

Woking BC’s wholly owned company racked up debts of more than £600m, according to its latest accounts.

PODCASTS

Fiscal devolution: A test of seriousness for government and places

By Mike Emmerich | 20 April 2026

If government and mayoral strategic authorities are willing to match fiscal responsibility and the retention of the proceeds of growth within agreed paramete...

PODCASTS

Sussex: a warning, not an anomaly

By Samer Bagaeen | 15 April 2026

Samer Bagaeen argues it would be comforting to treat ‘paralysis’ on reorganisation in Sussex as a one-off, but it points to a deeper problem at the heart of ...

PODCASTS

LCN chair: CCN existence 'illogical'

By Paul Marinko | 09 April 2026

The chair of the Local Councils Network (LCN) has suggested it seems ‘illogical’ for the County Councils Network (CCN) to exist in light of reorganisation.