The Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill is going through parliament. Who’s likely to benefit, who isn’t, and what’s been happening around the country?
The Conservative government’s agenda is beginning to take shape. What has it to say about the things that matter most to communities? Let’s start with the housing bill.
The Centre for Inclusive Futures is a small London-based development agency with the mission of supporting efforts to develop sustainable communities which include everyone as equal citizens.
The NAO’s report on the government’s sales of public land for new homes makes for uncomfortable reading. But it’s not just land that’s surplus to requirements: it’s the use of evidence itself.
Despite the “radical devolution” promised by the chancellor, the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill will leave Westminster firmly in control of the things that matter.
So the Tories have been returned with an overall majority to govern us for another five years. What does this mean for local democracy?
What genuine changes have been secured for local democracy across the UK in recent months? Is devolution creating powerhouses or poor houses?
Looking at a set of recent planning outcomes across England: it’s clear that the localism agenda hasn’t tipped the balance in favour of grassroots communities. The same old names keep cropping up.
Will localism form part of the forthcoming election manifestos? If so, what exactly? Some early indications on the Coalition side.
The Communities and Local Government Select Committee has reported back on its inquiry into Community Rights. The government has responded – using dodgy data to reward bad performance. What’s the story?
The Localism Act gives councils a ‘General Power of Competence’ (GPoC) allowing them the same legal powers as private individuals. But are they using these freedoms in ways that benefit grassroots localities?
We now know what the Smith Commission’s proposing for Scotland, and William Hague’s options on English votes for English laws. But how does devolution tie up with localism? A Santa-stic overview of news, comment and (dis)information.
