local government

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02 Mar 2026

LGIU Warns Of Deepening Financial Strain On Councils

The Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) has published its 2026 State of Local Government Finance in England research, finding that confidence in the sustainability of council finances remains critically low...

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27 Jan 2026

Five Questions To Ask Your MP Ahead Of The Local Government Settlement

With decisions on the local government finance settlement expected next week, now is a crucial moment for rural communities to make their voices heard. MPs play a key role in...

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05 Jan 2026

Looking To 2026: Our Focus For Rural Communities

As we look to 2026, the context for rural services and local governance continues to evolve. Local government structures may shift. Strategic authorities may develop. Boundaries may change. But regardless...

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05 Jan 2026

Government Responds To RSN On Fair Funding Concerns

The Rural Services Network (RSN) has received a formal response from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government following its letter raising concerns about the impact of Fair Funding...

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01 Dec 2025

New Research Explores The Future Shape Of Local Government In England

A new report from the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU), produced in partnership with Local Partnerships, examines how England’s evolving governance system could operate by 2050. Drawing on a survey...

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24 Jun 2025

Government Launches Fair Funding and Council Tax Reform Plans

The Government has published a major Written Ministerial Statement setting out the next stage of its plans to reform how local government in England is funded — and how council...

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03 Mar 2025

NAO Highlights Sustainability Crisis in Local Government Finances

A National Audit Office (NAO) report reveals critical sustainability issues in local government finances, driven by rising demands on essential services and delays in finance reform. Despite a 4% increase...

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11 Feb 2025

Local Government Finance Debate

A recent Local Government Finance Debate, overseen by Madam Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes, offered a comprehensive platform to discuss the future of local government funding in England. Minister Jim McMahon...

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11 Feb 2025

Key Updates on Local Government Devolution Plan

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has unveiled a comprehensive devolution package set to transform local governance across several regions in England. Under the leadership of Deputy Prime...

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20 Jan 2025

Advocating for Fair Funding in Rural England

The Rural Services Network (RSN) continues to express deep concern over the significant disparities highlighted in the latest local government finance settlement. The funding allocations continue to disadvantage rural communities,...

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