http://www.lga.gov.ukFrom the LGA Websiteen-usCopyright: (C) Local Government Association60http://www.lga.gov.ukhttp://new.lga.gov.uk/lga/site-lga2/images/f/logo.gif12060Daily news headlines from the LGA Media TeamThu, 02 Sep 2010 10:08:10 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=283252http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=283252 Agenda and minutes for current and previous meetings of the Regeneration and Transport Board.Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:24:15 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2457031http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2457031 The Local Government Challenge 2011 has begun and applications are now open for candidates who think they have the drive, determination and ability to one day lead their council as an inspiring chief executive.Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:12:19 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13411525http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13411525 Millions of pounds of council taxpayers’ money is being wasted dealing with litter lout motorists because of a loophole in the law, council leaders are warning. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:48:29 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13324819http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13324819 Ministers are 'minded to implement' LG Association proposals that would streamline national services for councils and help deliver savings.Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:45:32 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13323980http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13323980 firstonline newsThu, 26 Aug 2010 10:25:30 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=56615http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=56615 The newly launched pay and workforce section of the LGA Research website provides the latest research on local government pay and workforce issues. We have recently updated the site and will now have quarterly releases of data alongside our main publications. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:17:51 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1094983http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1094983 LGA Analysis and Research have produced a short brochure that outlines current activity which supports local government sector improvement. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 12:02:04 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=8159622http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=8159622 Weekly service for LGA member councils.Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:53:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=5412787http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=5412787 The Statistical Bulletin gives a monthly snapshot of core economic and labour market data. It provides latest and forecast data on inflation, employment, unemployment and pay settlementsMon, 23 Aug 2010 09:44:44 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1095161http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1095161 The search for contestants to take part in the first ever Local Government Challenge is over. The ten finalists will compete in a series of challenges. The winner, who will receive the first ever prestigious Bruce-Lockhart Scholarship, will be announced at the LGA Group Annual Conference 2010 in Bournemouth.Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:53:50 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=5765768http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=5765768 Trying to register the death of a person who is not yet dead, asking where pest control officers buy their rifles and seeking an explanation of the plot of an 18th century play are some of the more unusual queries council call centres have dealt with over the past year.Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:10:51 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13200846http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13200846 Agenda and minutes for current and previous meetings of the Regeneration and Transport Board.Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:19:29 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12530437http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12530437 The number of schools changing their status in the next 12 months could result in a boom for school uniform suppliers with hard-pressed parents forced to pay the price, council leaders warned today.Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:01:00 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13155219http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13155219 The cost to the public purse of centrally imposed duties, statutory plans and strategies, data returns and uncoordinated inspection and regulation activities is quite simply colossal and for the most part largely unmapped and uncontrolled. The LG Group is keen to work with government to tackle this and in this paper we provide some examples of the burden heaped upon councils currently. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:07:21 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12312458http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12312458 Britain’s rural villages are at risk of dying unless radical action is taken to secure their future, it is being warned. A newly formed Rural Coalition, made up of councils and leading organisations which represent rural interests, is calling on the Government to deliver on its Big Society vision by radically empowering local people to shape the rural places in which they live. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:06:58 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13129089http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13129089 Parents are being urged to defy the cotton-wool culture and encourage their children to get on their bikes during the summer holidays, with support from their local council.Sat, 14 Aug 2010 01:01:00 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13083877http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13083877 The Safer and Stronger Communities Programme Board has responsibility for LG Group activity in the promotion of the health and safety of local communities, including issues of crime and anti-social behaviour, police liaison, community safety, public protection; the fire service and emergency planning, and licensing and other regulatory activities.Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:11:02 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=20689http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=20689 The Audit & Scrutiny Panel oversees and reports to the LG Group Executive on the Group’s internal operations including financial reporting, audit, risk, delivery of the business plan and the use of resources. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:57:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1959681http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1959681 The Government has written to councils inviting them to create local enterprise partnerships, envisaged to take on many of the functions of Regional Development Agencies. RDAs currently manage the European Regional Development Fund, and we would encourage councils to think about how their LEP will engage with this programme. This quick brief offers councils some points and recommendations to consider.Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:04:57 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12483399http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12483399 This latest research by the LGA examines recent and anticipated demographic trends in England. It uses data from the Office for National Statistics to explore the effects mortality, fertility and migration have had, and continue to have on the demographics on England. The report then goes on to summarise how this will be played out at a local level.Fri, 13 Aug 2010 11:17:14 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1509543http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1509543 This research was conducted for the Local Government Association and Local Government Improvement and Development. The report summarises local authority activity relating to climate change adaptation and mitigation and the resources and support required to continue their work in this area.Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:09:46 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1095283http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1095283 Improvement Board agenda.Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:50:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12487703http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12487703 A detailed dossier of bureaucratic burdens faced by councils, detailing the costs of unnecessary red tape and outdated laws has been submitted to Ministers by council leaders. The submission to Ministers by the Local Government Association, which represents more than 350 councils in England and Wales, lays bare the huge burden of red tape facing councils which costs millions of pounds and diverts council staff from providing front line services. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:43:59 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13049837http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13049837 Money raised from dumping rubbish in the ground could help a nation of budding Jamie Olivers to grow their own food.Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:45:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13045032http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13045032 Cllr Richard Kemp, Vice-Chairman of the Local Government Association responds to the Government's decision to abolish the Place SurveyWed, 11 Aug 2010 11:38:04 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13046042http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13046042 The August 2010 edition of the LG Association 2012 bulletinTue, 10 Aug 2010 15:41:40 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13026127http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=13026127 At the recent LGA fire conference we launched our publication "Building the Top Team: a discussion document for Fire and Rescue Authority members". The fire service has one of the top approval ratings in the public sector but also, on occasion, the service can be inwardly focussed. Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:54:50 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=9670242http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=9670242 Thousands of people are still dying alone and lonely every year, 44 years after the plight of Eleanor Rigby was immortalised in haunting lyrics by the Beatles.Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:23:19 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12976928http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12976928 News, advice and briefings from the LGA.Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:02:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1847203http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1847203 Responding to the Fostering Network’s report ‘Bursting at the Seams’, John Ransford, Chief Executive of the LGA, said: "The system which looks after children in care is feeling the strain – it was never designed to deal with the increase in numbers which we have experienced in the last couple of years."Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:10:49 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12911762http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12911762 The LGA's European and International Unit produce a regular email update. Those registered on the LGA website can opt to receive this, along with other LGA bulletins.Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:36:08 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=762712http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=762712 The Safer Communities Bulletin, bringing you updates and important news about community safety in local government. We want to use this newsletter as a way to get information to you quickly, but also to hear direct from you how services are being delivered, improved and received in your local area. If you would like to contact us, either on future content or to offer feedback on the newsletter, please email us at scb@lga.gov.uk.Fri, 06 Aug 2010 12:12:52 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=4105265http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=4105265 The monthly Employment Digest provides information on the labour market, pay issues and trends and the economy.Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:21:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1094987http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1094987 The Environment Board continues to provide a steer to the LGA in lobbying for all environment issues including climate change, energy, housing, planning and waste. Please feel free to email Fatima.deabreu@lga.gov.uk with suggested issues you would like to see included in the Bulletin, or by the LGA more widely – and do forward this onto interested colleagues. Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:27:20 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=4887748http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=4887748 LACORS and Environmental Protection UK are developing guidance for local authorities on biomass plant and air quality. Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:14:29 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2254770http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2254770 On 30 June 2009 the Government published a major policy document, Building Britain's Future, alongside its draft legislative programme. The LGA’s On The Day Briefing summarised the key proposals. This further brief provides a more detailed analysis of the plans that will affect local government.Tue, 03 Aug 2010 08:33:03 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2746068http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2746068 LGA's Culture, Tourism and Sport News brings provides news and updates of interest to members and officers working in the arts, culture, leisure and tourism, sport, libraries or heritage services. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:28:32 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1919225http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1919225 Youth councils are holding local authorities' services to account – and saving them money, writes Alex Delaney.Fri, 30 Jul 2010 10:51:15 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12786878http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12786878 Headhunters and talent scouts are needed to ensure a wider range of people are elected to local councils, writes Joe SimpsonFri, 30 Jul 2010 10:47:43 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12790548http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12790548 Councils in the region are coming together to scrutinise the help and support available to veterans, writes Cllr Robin Todd.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:50:39 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12785513http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12785513 Plans to introduce directly elected police commissioners could divert money away from frontline services, council leaders have warned. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:35:58 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12785470http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12785470 Senior staff at Liverpool city council have volunteered for a pay cut which will save £500,000 a year. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:18:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784929http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784929 The vast majority of parliamentary and local elections held in May were well run – but voter confidence in the system has declined significantly.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:10:39 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784800http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784800 Earlier this month, I was proud to host the first Mansfield Learning Partnership conference led by young people, for young people.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:00:44 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783386http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783386 Housing minister Grant Shapps is giving rural communities that want to build new homes the power to bypass the planning process.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:59:35 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784563http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784563 With the school holidays upon us, it feels fitting that this week’s issue of first has a youthful feel to it. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:54:27 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784051http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784051 Delegates at the Local Government Group annual conference in Bournemouth earlier this month helped to divert 12 cubic metres of waste from landfill by recycling it.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:51:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784377http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784377 Councils will be given the power to combine the roles of elected mayor and chief executive, Eric Pickles, the communities secretary, has confirmed.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:43:49 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784239http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12784239 An independent review of how England coped with severe winter weather over the past two years is calling for guidance to reassure individuals they won’t be sued for clearing snow from pavements.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:36:00 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783992http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783992 Local government can help boost the economy by encouraging residents to use the internet, writes Martha Lane Fox, UK digital champion.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:29:54 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783886http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12783886 A unique facility housing a library and leisure centre under one roof has opened in the London borough of Hillingdon.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:47:13 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12782976http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12782976 Consumers face a lottery when it comes to buying minced beef with a low fat content, a councils trading standards and environmental health survey has found. Misleading product descriptions and inaccurate labelling information are some of the concerning trends identified in a nationwide study co-ordinated by Local Government Regulation, part of the Local Government Group.Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:40:04 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12726609http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12726609 Responding to the Home Office’s consultation paper “Policing in the 21st Century” published today, Cllr Richard Kemp, Vice Chair of the Local Government Association, said: “People quite rightly want a say on what is being done to combat crime and disorder issues affecting their every day lives. The current situation cannot continue. Shifting police accountability to the public and away from Whitehall is something that local government has long been campaigning for."Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:16:08 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12726420http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12726420 Responding to the publication of the independent ‘Winter Resilience Review’, commissioned by the Government to examine the impact of the last two winters on the country’s transport systems, Cllr David Sparks, Vice Chairman of the Local Government Association, said: "During the summer most people enjoy the luxury of being able to forget about ice and snow, but local government can’t do that."Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:02:20 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12722319http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12722319 The Outcomes Based Accountability (OBA) model has been used as a way of structuring planning to improve outcomes for whole populations and for improving services. The OBA approach focuses on outcomes that are desired and monitoring and evidencing progress towards those desired outcomes.The National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) was commissioned by Local Government Association Analysis and Research (LGAAR), on behalf of Local Government Improvement and Development, to identify the impact of the OBA approach on LA practice in Children's Services through nine case studiesMon, 26 Jul 2010 11:10:59 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12516112http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12516112 The Energy Saving Trust fleet hero awards recognise environmental achievements in the public sector, writes Janet MackechnieMon, 26 Jul 2010 09:50:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2318435http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2318435 The Local Government Group has set out an open and comprehensive offer to central government, offering to work with the Government in undertaking radical reform of the state by initiating place-based budgeting. This work has already begun but must move forward immediately to protect services and make savings. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:17:56 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=11328875http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=11328875 Following Michael Gove’s announcement of changes to 16-19 funding on 19 July, the LGA has produced the attached joint briefing with ADCS and React with the latest news on what the changes will mean for councils.Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:08:38 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12655945http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12655945 Responding to new arrangements announced for the funding and management of post-16 education, Cllr Shireen Ritchie, Chair of the Children and Young People’s Board at the LGA, said: "There will be disappointment that this reorganisation of post-16 education follows so swiftly from a previous one, and the latest leaves just as many funding streams and middlemen in place."Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:49:53 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12605436http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12605436 Councils have spent more than £200 million doing the legally required preparation and paperwork for school rebuilding projects which have now been cancelled, new figures revealed today.Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:12:54 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12459725http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12459725 The Local Government Group welcomes the chance to comment on this consultation paper, in which Communities and Local Government outlined changes to the planning rules for Houses in Multiple Occupation.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:56:44 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12583730http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12583730 In response to figures from Keep Britain Tidy that show councils in England spend £858 million a year cleaning litter from the streets, Cllr Gary Porter, Chairman of the LGA Environment Board, said: “At a time when council budgets are being increasingly stretched it is outrageous that they are having to spend more than three-quarters of a billion pounds cleaning up after people who can’t be bothered to put their rubbish in the bin."Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:55:11 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12580300http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12580300 Chair's latest report to the LGA Executive.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:36:03 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=7188604http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=7188604 Chair's latest report to the LGA ExecutiveMon, 19 Jul 2010 09:34:48 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=7188871http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=7188871 Increased transparency in public services is an enabler to both build public confidence and trust and to achieve a leaner, more effective public sector. Achieving this aim requires work and commitment from all parts of the public sector. Our response to the CLG consultation on Local Spending Reports sets out key standards for the reports, agencies for inclusion and areas for additional focus.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:34:59 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12576039http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12576039 The Government has published its much-anticipated Care and Support Green Paper. Our briefing summarises the main proposals and sets out our initial response. We want to see a part-national, part-local system with a single, transferable assessment of needs and means being applicable anywhere in the country but the services to meet need and the amount to pay for them decided locally.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:13:27 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2203259http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=2203259 Council Worker of the Year Awards 2010 were awarded at the Local Government Group's annual conference in Bournemouth, July 2010. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 16:49:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1879191http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1879191 Each month, John Ransford provides a report to the LGA Executive which updates them on the Association’s major work programmes and highlights key achievements and issues over the past month.Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:32:52 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=590040http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=590040 Local authorities are to be handed a greater role in planning public health under proposals outlined by the government this week.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:41:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12511617http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12511617 Local Government Regulation (formerly LACORS) has been given an overwhelming vote of confidence by council regulatory services officers, a new survey has revealed.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:23:14 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12511149http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12511149 Councils have spent at least £160m on preparation and paperwork for school rebuilding projects which have now been cancelled, the LG Association has revealed.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:08:29 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12510807http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12510807 A business improvement officer from the London borough of Merton has become the first ever winner of the local government challenge.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:51:31 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12510249http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12510249 News headlines from the Local Government Association Media team.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:44:55 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12507630http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12507630 The Local Government Group is on course to save £18.2m by the end of a 10-year outsourcing contract.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:42:57 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12507415http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12507415 The LG Association’s safer communities board met with councillors from the South West this week to discuss how it could help councils tackle crime.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:30:02 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506757http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506757 A competition to identify the local government leaders of the future has had unexpected benefits for a local charity, writes Peter Brown, of Braintree Mencap.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:16:30 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506688http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506688 Local Government Improvement and Development has launched a new ‘ageing well’ programme to help councils respond to the needs of an ageing population at a time of spending cutbacks.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:07:40 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506424http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12506424 Putting councils at the heart of holding the police to account locally is not only the most cost effective solution - it also ensures the public get a fair hearing.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:30:28 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12503759http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12503759 Introducing directly elected individuals is not, in the LGA’s view, the best way to strengthen police accountability. The police need to be accountable to the public they serve, and that accountability needs to be strengthened. However, we believe that directly elected individuals will weaken the ability of the police, councils and other public services in the fundamental objective of cutting crime.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:17:16 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12504628http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12504628 The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are just two years away. One of the major opportunities from hosting the Games is to inspire people to get more active. Putting the people back into participation sets out how local councils can help achieve a legacy of mass participation for everyone, whatever their ability and wherever in the country they live. Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:21:00 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12492914http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12492914 Putting the People back into Participation – the LGA has launched a consultation draft of a major new 2012 Games sports legacy plan for councils. It reveals that more than half the people who play sport do so outside of the formal club structure in council-owned or community facilities and shows that councils spend five times as much on sport as national governmentWed, 14 Jul 2010 17:16:58 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=10163631http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=10163631 Following the Government's publication of the Health White Paper, the Local Government Group has produced a briefing for councils detailing our position on the White Paper.Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:55:11 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12465576http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12465576 News headlines from the Local Government Association Media team.Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:04:19 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12482398http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12482398 To understand how EU laws work locally, this LG Association report, Knowing me, Knowing EU – the impact of EU laws on local councils, demonstrates to EU law makers – the European Commission, European Parliament, central government and UK Parliament – exactly how the European laws they make are implemented by councils. Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:42:57 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12482000http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12482000 Agenda and minutes for current and previous meetings of the Regeneration and Transport Board.Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:49:27 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=11292758http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=11292758 The success of any organisation – whether it is in the public or the private sector – depends on having determined and enthusiastic staff, according to leading businesswoman Karren Brady.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 14:20:01 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12321576http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12321576 The winners of the Council Worker of the Year Awards 2010 have been revealed as the nation celebrates its unsung heroes.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 14:19:00 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385802http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385802 Delegates at this week’s Local Government Group annual conference in Bournemouth and sharp-eyed readers of first will have noticed some changes to the Group’s publications and literature.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 14:13:04 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12386978http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12386978 Radical proposals for the largest devolution of power for generations could release savings of up to £100 billion over five years, councils will say today. A fundamental programme to strip out bureaucracy and red tape, and hand power over spending to local people, could produce major saving and minimise the effects on frontline services, according to new proposals by the Local Government Association.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:45:08 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12290581http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12290581 Councils should take no action to mitigate the effects of global warming, Lord Lawson told a Local Government Group conference workshop session on climate change.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:42:59 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12347174http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12347174 His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales thanked councils for their work on helping young people achieve their potential – in many cases in partnership with his charity, The Prince’s Trust.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:37:10 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12386139http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12386139 Deliveries of winter salt are already taking place despite summer temperatures topping 30C, council leaders said as they published a review into last winter’s extreme snowfalls.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:27:48 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385875http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385875 Sir Jeremy Beecham praised the efforts of LG Association staff as he made his final speech to its general assembly this week.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:18:18 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385588http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12385588 The Local Government Group is on course to save £18.2 million by the end of a 10-year outsourcing contract. Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:46:22 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12384946http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12384946 Local economic partnerships (LEPs) will be far more flexible than the regional development agencies (RDAs) they will replace, according to local government minister Bob Neill.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:57:39 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12346971http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12346971 The LG Association has stood the test of time. When it was formed in 1997, many thought that the various traditions it represented could not form a single voice for the sector.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:31:44 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12383170http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12383170 The road to economic recovery is paved with good intentions, but some cities are starting out from a stronger base than others, write Katy Morris and Neil LeeFri, 09 Jul 2010 11:16:21 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12382743http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12382743 What are place-based budgets and how will they work? Cllr David Parsons provides some answers.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:03:43 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12381371http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12381371 Councils should be given a clear role as commissioners of education according to a new report, writes Rachel Potter.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:02:32 BSThttp://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12381119http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=12381119