The world after crisis: Councils look to build a green recovery
The UK will be looking for an economic boost after the pandemic. Simon Brammer and Simeran Backer argue local authorities could lead the way with an approach designed to tackle[…]
Resources
Pandemic patterns: Research reveals a diversity of effects on local government finances
A study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies shows councils suffering in diverse ways as a result of Covid-19. Kate Ogden explores the detail The coronavirus crisis has been a[…]
In the pandemic local government faced its ‘darkest hour’
Covid-19 has taken local government to the brink. Andrew Hardingham surveys the epic workload brought on by the pandemic and shows how local government has not only survived but demonstrated[…]
Spelthorne: Setting the record straight on commercial investments
A number of articles have been written in recent weeks about Spelthorne Borough Council’s investment strategy which the council considers requires correction. Since 2014, Spelthorne Borough Council, like all councils,[…]
Ending PFI contracts: Top tips for managing the process
A recent report underlined the importance of closing a PFI contract effectively. Helen Randall navigates the intricacies and pitfalls. Does your authority have a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) deal which[…]
Stephen Fitzgerald: Local government can emerge from the post-pandemic world transformed
The Covid-19 pandemic has presented local government with its biggest test. But it may also be an opportunity to shape a new organisational model for the future The country is[…]
Court of Appeal’s Heathrow decision delivers climate warning to councils
A decision over a third runway at the country’s biggest airport means section 151 officers must consider climate issues when they draw up their spending plans. Helen Randall explains why.[…]
Funding gaps and how to manage them
Budgets have been compiled but how will local authorities confront funding gaps? And will they continue with commercial investments or focus on other priorities, like local housing? We asked the[…]
Coronavirus: Preparing your council for the crisis
Central government is implementing measures to confront the coronavirus outbreak. David Hill works through the questions local authorities will need to address as the virus spreads. The coronavirus is dominating[…]
Crunch time: Building a ‘robust and adequate’ budget
It’s budget time for local government and CFOs across the country are wrestling with their statutory responsibilities. Andrew Hardingham writes that in the end it comes down to looking at[…]
