David Pugh: After the crisis, we need to continue with flexible planning policies to boost economic recovery

We could reduce or waive fees for applications that relate to business development. Virtual meetings can reduce delays.

Izzi Seccombe: Councils are putting their extra funding to effective use

I am grateful to the Government for responding to our financial concerns. It’s meant that help has reached those who need it most.

Will town halls run out of money?

The funding pressures are genuine. But expecting to be “fully” compensated by central Government is unrealistic.

Izzi Seccombe: Our councillors have reason to feel upbeat again after this week in Manchester

There was a really good vibe at Party Conference – especially at lots of outstanding fringe events discussing how to give local communities greater powers.

Izzi Seccombe: Conservatives should let local communities take back control

An English Devolution Bill is needed to reignite the process of devolving widespread powers and funding to local areas across the whole country.

Gary Porter: Reflections on four years as the voice of local government

When we work with central government, we improve lives and achieve the best results for our communities.

Gary Porter: The local elections weren’t just about Brexit. Hostility to new housing was a big factor.

The Government has committed to building 300,000 new homes by the mid-2020s. But we need to deliver this with public consent.

Gary Porter: It wouldn’t be Christmas…without the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement

It contained a number of positive announcements. The New Homes Bonus is particularly significant for shire districts.

Tom Bell: Councils should raise their readiness for cyber attacks

More than one in four councils was subject to a serious security breach in the last five years. Given the sensitive nature of the information held, security needs to be improved.

Ian McCord: Bay of Pigs, Challenger Space Shuttle, Northants County Council – groupthink destroyed them all

Too often local government lacks proper scrutiny. There is a closed-mindedness that ignores warnings and fails to consider long-term consequences.

Alex Walker: Why we need more young councillors

Digital is changing the way we live our lives. Councils can’t keep up unless the younger generation are part of the decision making process.

Tony Devenish: The Local Government Association is wrong to demand tax increases

Demands for billions of pounds for extra adult social care spending lack credibility given the continued profligate spending in our town halls.

Gary Porter: The Government is listening to Conservative councillors

On Brexit, housing and social care there is constructive dialogue and partnership with Ministers. It is delivering results.

Bob Blackman: Today, at last, my Homelessness Reduction Act comes into force

It is not a fix-all, but I hope its measures will produce a real improvement in the number of people who become homeless in the first place.

Gary Porter: Co-location is delivering better value for money in the public sector

Councils sharing space with job centres is an example. It means an improved service – and releases buildings which can be sold to reduce debt and provide new homes.