The arts thrive – as councils cut subsidies
Culture blossoms when independent of the state.
Chris Whitehouse: Ofsted Chairman’s insult that people of the Isle of Wight are “inbred” makes his position untenable.
Attracting high calibre teachers to the Island has always been a challenge, these remarks will make it harder.
Harrow and Buckinghamshire councils agree a shared service deal
Yet given the vast potential for savings the efforts of councils in general has been derisory.
Council by-election results from yesterday
The Conservatives lost a seat to the Lib Dems in Eden.
Essex county councillor switches from the purple party to the Conservatives
The news follows another defection from UKIP, which took place in Gloucestershire last month.
Council “busybodies” challenged over Public Spaces Protection Orders
Are there not already enough rules in place for those who represent a genuine nuisance?
Vicky McDermott: Has the Government made social care less of a priority?
Responsibility for social care has been downgraded from a Minister of State post to the bottom rung on the Ministerial ladder, Under Secretary.
The rate of home ownership may still be in decline
While the aspiration is stronger than ever.
The decline in local newspapers means councillors have a duty to communicate with residents
Tweeting should be regarded as a basic requirement.
Paul Carter: Devolution must be about more than growth deals
Localism means truly integrating health with social care services.
Council by-election results from this week
The Conservatives lost a seat to the Lib Dems in Cornwall.
Promoting work is a way to reduce homelessness
Rather than building more hostels let’s ensure those currently in them have the chance to leave.
The Conservatives have an influx of new members – they should be encouraged to become council candidates
There is an opportunity to revitalise local democracy.
Councils will be able to keep Business Rates – but they will lose out on other funding
Other Whitehall grants, for instance on adult social care, will be phased out.
Time to get tough on state land banking
Government departments are too slow to release land for disposal – frustrating the chance for new homes.