News

Laura De Campos Duhdamell from Surrey County Council has been named as the 2023 Local Government Apprentice of the Year.

Whilst councils are working hard to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles, it is vital that we avoid a huge increase in traffic levels on our local roads, which could be 54 per cent higher by 2060.

The LGA has begun to work with the sector, professional associations, and other groups to map the different elements which currently provide assurance of the performance of local government, in the interests of clarity and transparency and to help understanding of how they all fit together. 

“This is a significant watering down of promises, which even as they stood would only have taken us on the first steps towards a more sustainable and refocused future for social care. People who draw on care and support will understandably feel frustrated and concerned by these developments."

“Homelessness pressures, combined with depleting social housing stock and an unaffordable private rented sector feels like a perfect storm for already stretched council services."

“The problems caused by nitrous oxide in our local communities are no laughing matter. Councils are concerned that not only does it lead to a plague of anti-social behaviour but there is growing evidence that it can cause serious health problems for those who use it."

Councils’ allocations for the local public health grant from April, which also goes to fund local addiction support services, has still yet to be announced leaving the future of many vital services in doubt.

An alarming number of cherished bus routes could be lost forever from April without further Government funding support and a long-term plan to keep them running, councils and transport groups are warning today.

“We have long argued that stopping terrorism requires a broad and joined-up approach. Investing in a long-term approach, which includes a multi-agency support offer for those at risk, is vital in addressing some of the wider issues that may contribute to individuals becoming radicalised and create tensions in our communities.

“Today’s final settlement confirms an increase in local government core spending power, which will help councils deal with inflationary and other cost pressures they face next year."