It is easy for local actors to get lost in the multitude of high profile talks and side events focusing on national and international strategies and targets. However, there is space for local authorities to play a hugely important part in global events including the COP series.
Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council writes about the climate emergency, South Tyneside’s innovative and ambitious climate policy and the opportunities COP 26 provides us to reopen the debate and call for national policy change to support local authorities.
Urban flooding is a pressing challenge for local authorities across the world. Kirsty MacRae from the Scottish Flood Forum writes about the situation in Scottish cities and explores what can be done to address this issue going forward.
Almost a decade on, this blog provides a critical look at City Deals in the UK, questioning whether such deals represent a useful tool for facing up to today’s urban policy challenges or whether they lack in the measures of effectiveness, democracy and scope that would render them a lasting solution.
LGIU’s Janet Sillett reflects on speaking at the Age UK Influencing Conference last week about levelling up and the difficulties for the third sector, particularly charities, in having ‘a place at the table’ when discussing these plans for the future.
A Schools White Paper is confirmed for 2022 and is likely to signal significant structural changes for the local government role in education and children’s services. This blog addresses what impact this might have on school governance.
Moray Council in Scotland has agreed to the settlement of 20 Afghan refugees, Cllr Theresa Coull writes that as a council and a community the best thing you can do is be friendly and supportive whilst they settle into a new environment.
Well before the Covid-19 crisis hit, our own experiences as consumers were already changing our understanding and expectations of how digital technology can be integrated into and help our daily lives. Here’s the next step forward.
What’s in a name? There was widespread surprise and some anger in local government to find itself dropped from the title of the newly renamed Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
With the construction industry representing 38% of global emissions, change for the sector is a huge priority – and one local government will have a hand in achieving. Improving energy efficiency in homes is of great importance, but continuing to neglect embodied carbon would be a mistake.
