Local Councils Network Launch

Why are you rebranding to the Local Councils Network (LCN)? 

Local government reorganisation means district and county councils will come together as new unitary authorities by 2028. Our old name, the District Councils’ Network, did not reflect the fact that we already have unitary council members and all council are likely to be unitary soon. We’re rebranding to reflect the future shape of local government and to show that we’re building a new organisation with a new focus and priorities at a time of major change across local public services. 

What is the ethos of LCN? 

Our new slogan, ‘leading locally, influencing nationally’ captures exactly who we are and what we do. Our role is to reflect our members’ views at a national level, to influence policy and to stand up for councils at a time of unprecedented change. By doing this we can help you, our member councils, to succeed in how you lead your place, for the benefit of everyone living there. We’re passionate about genuinely local government and ensuring power sits close to communities. We also know the strength of our network: it brings councils together to share insight, expertise and practical solutions. 

What is changing as part of the rebrand? 

Our name, logo and visual identity are changing – but that’s only part of it. We are expanding our focus to encompass the range of services delivered by unitary councils, including adults’ and children’s social care, highways and public health. LCN is poised, ready to support all councils on their challenges and to highlight the opportunities open to them.  

What isn’t changing? 

The core elements of our existing offer and the value we deliver for our members will continue. We’ll strongly support districts for as long as they exist. We’ll remain politically neutral and will facilitate cross-party working. Our work will stay focused on leadership, evidence and practical, workable solutions. We’ll continue advocating on all the major issues councils face. We’ll continue to have a strong focus on promoting the vital role of councils as place leaders. 

When will the new name and logo go live? 

19 March 2026. 

Why make this change now? 

We want to help shape the transition to new structures and the future shape of local government, not wait for others to decide it for us. Local government reorganisation is far from being the only big change affecting local public services. We’re ready now to help all councils with their challenges, including overcoming financial constraint, improving all services and gaining the power necessary to drive positive change. 

What if the Government delays the timetable for or scope of LGR? 

Our new identity will remain in place. We believe in the direction we’ve set, and our focus will stay the same regardless of when, or how, LGR progresses. 

 

Membership, governance and cross-sector representation 

Can district councils remain members until 2028? 

Absolutely. District councils will very much remain a valued part of LCN for as long as they exist. Your voices, experience and leadership will continue to shape our work every step of the way. 

Can unitary councils join LCN now? 

Yes, absolutely. We already have unitary members. If you’re not already a member and are interested in finding out more, please enquire at lcn@local.gov.uk to find out how you can join. Together, we’re stronger. 

Are there any restrictions on which councils can join? 

LCN membership is open to all principal authorities in England. 

Will LCN’s approach to political proportionality change? 

No. Political representation on LCN Executive Board will continue to be calculated using the same methodology. Representation is calculated annually to reflect the number and proportion of councillors from each political group across LCN member councils after local elections have taken place. The calculation includes an adjustment to reflect the size of the population served by each member council.  

LCN will remain a cross-party, politically neutral organisation. Our job remains to stand up for and support our members whatever their political make-up. 

How will you ensure district services and issues still get the attention they deserve? 

LCN will continue to be passionate about services currently delivered by district councils. While we’ll be developing new expertise on service areas such as social care and education, we’ll remain committed to support you on housing, waste collection, parks, leisure and all other district services. 

What support will LCN members receive during the LGR transition period? 

The LGR transition period will be challenging for all councils and we’ll be with you every step of the way. LCN will continue DCN’s programme of shared learning, also offering LGR preparation toolkits, workforce planning support, communications guidance, and dedicated transition groups. 

Will LCN remain a special interest group of the Local Government Association? 

Yes. LCN is committed to being a strong voice within the LGA. 

How will LCN work with other sector bodies? 

All sector bodies bring their own strengths and expertise. We aim to complement what already exists. We’ll work alongside and in partnership with other organisations whenever it adds value for our members and for the sector.  

LCN will continue and deepen DCN’s longstanding commitment to working collaboratively across the local government sector. We want to amplify, not compete with, the voices of the LGA and others. This rebrand is an opportunity for us to play our part in making the collective voice of local government as strong and united as possible. 

Practical information

How can you contact LCN? 

You can contact us at lcn@local.gov.uk. Email addresses for individual members of the LCN team will remain the same. 

Where can I find LCN’s digital and social media channels? 

Website: www.localcouncilsnetwork.gov.uk  

X: @localcouncilnet 

LinkedIn: Local Councils Network