Our team of leading experts provide regular commentary on a wide range of local government issues. For all press enquires, please contact Jen Pufky on 020 7554 2800 or 07825 617 927 or by email on jen.pufky@lgiu.org.uk.
Evidence suggests that social capital is important for people’s wellbeing. However, creating social capital in communities, especially in today’s economic climate, can be a challenge. Laura Wilkes of the LGiU has been analysing the impact of The Big Lunch.
Eight out of 10 councils expect their authorities to take a more proactive stance in relation to the private rented sector in future, according to research by the Local Government Information Unit (LGiU) and the Electrical Safety Council, and nearly 95% think they have “an important role to play” in this sector.
I have just paid my annual subscription to the Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS) – 1% of my take home pay – so a review by a critical friend is in order, writes John Fowler.
The majority of councils in England want to play a greater role in the private rented sector, reveals new research by the LGiU in partnership with the Electrical Safety Council (ESC). The research shows that 8 out of 10 councils want to engage more actively in the private rented sector and nearly 95 per cent…
18th April 2013 A report published today by LGiU highlights how a simple shared meal between neighbours can provide a valuable and sustainable boost to Britain’s social capital at a time when communities are increasingly disconnected. The LGiU has been analysing the social impact of The Big Lunch since its launch in 2009. Founded by…
LGiU research, published today in partnership with the National Trust, reveals that the government is sleepwalking towards the centralisation of the planning system. The LGiU surveyed senior local government politicians and officials in 94 Local Planning Authorities. 60 per cent of respondents disagree or strongly disagree that the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework…
Dr Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive of LGiU, commented on the 2013 Budget: “This is a budget that will be met with some relief by finance chiefs across the country. The Secretary of State has protected local government from further cuts, although this may be tempered by January’s formula grant reduction next year. Many will…
New research suggesting that half (51 per cent) of councils in England will miss the deadline for adopting a local plan has prompted the National Trust to call for local authorities to be given more time to agree plans for their area. When the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published on 27 March 2012,…
The ‘overwhelming’ majority of local authorities want the freedom to increase council tax, research by the LGiU and The MJ has revealed. The exclusive study revealed 80% of councils want to have control over setting council tax in 2014. Under current rules imposed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, councils need to seek…
The LGiU is pleased to announce that Dr Jonathan Carr-West has been appointed as the new Chief Executive. Dr Carr-West has been Director of Policy at LGiU and previously worked as Director in the LGiU’s Centre for Local Democracy. Prior to this, he worked as Deputy Programme Director at the RSA. Chair of the LGiU…
