Kris Wilson: Labour is seeking to thwart democracy and debate in Nuneaton and Bedworth

The way our Council meetings are presided over makes Speaker Bercow look impartial.

Mark Weston: Why the present way of directly electing mayors is working badly for Bristol

This governance model’s real flaw is a complete lack of checks and balances on executive powers. I hope in 2020 we will end it.

Andrew Kennedy: Unitary authorities can help save taxpayers’ money

Buck-passing between different authorities results in poor outcomes for residents and kickback from voters.

The local elections revisited: an analysis of results in the East Midlands

Labour had some startling setbacks – it was usually the independents who benefitted. Elsewhere we saw Conservative losses to the Lib Dems.

The local elections revisited: an analysis of results in the South West

The long-awaited Liberal Democrat revival in their traditional strongholds finally transpired. But the independents also made big gains.

Holly Whitbread: It’s tough going, campaigning in Epping Forest – despite having a good record to defend

I have had doors slammed in my face and been called a traitor. But I keep promoting a positive, localised Conservative message.

Wendy Thompson: Here in Wolverhampton, we have a premiership team. Now we need a premiership council.

Conservatives are offering a positive alternative. We can be a strong and effective voice for every Wulfrunian.

Daniel Stafford: Recall petitions should be introduced for local councillors

This small measure may well go some way to restoring the faith of voters in democratic measures – not least in Oxford.

Katrina Wood: Government meddling is making unitary status for local government in Buckinghamshire harder to achieve

There is a very short space of time to set this new council up. Decisions on the new arrangements must be made locally.

Vivienne Michael: Collaborating across the party political divide? In Mole Valley, we are familiar with the challenges.

You have to start early earning trust with openness, honesty and a lot of work on both sides.

Rupert Barnes: Let’s do more to celebrate our historic counties

Remember where we are; remember what has come down to us. Our unique heritage is there to be opened up.

Andy Street: Our 12-point plan to revitalise 
the High Street

We need to take a dynamic new approach to our High Streets with ambitious thinking. The future is not just retail.

Miles Evans: Devolution to town councils makes financial sense

Newbury Town Council has shown how we can retain services and save money, by community collaboration. It is the triumph of the small state over the nanny state.

Stephanos Ioannou: Councils have the financial incentive to rubber stamp bad development proposals

Jeopardising local beauty and conservation for the sake of housebuilding is a real problem for councillors. We have to defend our communities.

Kevin Davis: Each London borough should have its own directly elected mayor

This change would mean streamlined decision making. It would also allow greater devolution in areas such as policing and NHS primary care.