New Report – LOOKING TO 2050: The future of local government

New research finds devolution alone does not guarantee success for local areas.

Councils need clarity, coherence and a long-term plan from Government to deliver devolution at scale.
The report, from the LGIU (Local Government Information Unit), supported by Local Partnerships, concludes that a model of governance which improves regional economic outcomes, supports housing growth, tackles inequality, embeds fiscal sustainability and strengthens climate resilience can be built – but will require a purposeful design of roles, responsibilities and long-term direction.

10 Steps to a Coherent System by 2050

• Define a clear national purpose for Strategic Authorities.
• Map enduring responsibilities: local by default, regional where beneficial, national only where necessary.
• Modernise Whitehall to lead on frameworks, not micromanage.
• Establish a statutory Mayoral Council for England.
• Roll out integrated funding settlements nationwide.
• Consolidate growth and investment programmes under strategic authorities.
• Build shared governance and accountability frameworks between regions and councils.
• Strengthen institutional resilience with stable boundaries and workforce planning.
• Develop a Collaboration Toolkit for consistent practice.
• Set a clear pathway to 2050 with a sliding scale of ambition.

The full report, informed by a sector-wide survey across all current combined authority areas, as well as in-depth interviews with senior officials, leaders and mayors, is available on our website.

Local Partnerships bridges the gap between central government policy and local government delivery, and we’re here to support you through reform and beyond. If you’d like to know more or discuss how we can help, please get in touch.