An analysis of the levers councils can use to build more inclusive local economies.
In recent years, the concept of creating more inclusive economies has risen up the local government agenda. Breaking with traditional models of economic development, councils have increasingly begun to explore how local policy levers can create growth that benefits all residents, including those who have historically been cut off from the proceeds of growth.
Recently the economic context has fundamentally changed and the negative consequences of unequal growth have been amplified by the COVID-19 emergency.
Councils’ immediate priority has been to ensure that individuals and businesses that have been impacted by the crisis are able to access the support to which they are entitled. However, the sector is increasingly looking to the medium to longer-term and exploring what wholistic approaches need to be undertaken to stabilise local economies, rebuild key sectors and support communities.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the LGA commissioned IPPR North to undertake an analysis of the levers councils can use to build more inclusive local economies.