The District Councils’ Network has today relaunched itself as the Local Councils Network (LCN).
The rebirth of the organisation – which has 169 unitary and district council members and is one of England’s largest local government bodies – was announced this lunchtime at its Annual Conference.
DCN’s transformation into LCN comes amid the reorganisation of local government under which all district and county councils are due to disappear and be replaced by new unitary councils. However, it also offers an opportunity to build a new body which is responsive to the rapidly changing needs of all English councils.
The new organisation was launched by LCN’s Chair, Cllr Richard Wright, in his speech at the conference that began today, in Windsor.
Speaking in advance of the event, Cllr Wright said: “While our rebranding reflects local government reorganisation, it also presents a unique opportunity to build something new. We can stand up for more of local government, more powerfully, at a time of unprecedented and rapid change.
“Some things won’t change. We’ll retain our passion for genuinely local government and our unwavering support for our councils – new and existing unitary councils, and district councils for as long as they exist.
“We’re passionate about local government, we’re serious about empowering local leaders and we’re optimistic for the future.
“Whether you’re a council that has worked for us in the past or not, we want to be there for you now.”
LCN will remain a cross-party membership organisation for councils and a special interest group within the Local Government Association. Its full offer to councils is set out in a prospectus which was unveiled on Thursday. This sets out a series of reasons for why councils should join:
National influence: speaking up for councils, shaping government policy
LCN gives councils a powerful voice nationally. We represent member councils collectively in policy discussions, with a focus on a strong role for councils in the devolved system.
Practical support: equipping councils to operate effectively through change
LCN uses our extensive contacts within central government and the expertise within our membership to help councils operate effectively. We offer briefings and information to help our members understand and prepare for emerging issues including policy developments.
Peer connection: working through transformation together
LCN brings councils together to build common understanding and develop collective viewpoints on key issues, as well as to share the emotional and political pressures of leading through change. LCN runs networks, events and webinars to bring together local leaders to explore challenges and opportunities.
Data-led insights: sharing knowledge, experience and best practice
LCN helps member councils share innovation and best practice, as well as access information and collaborate with peers. We collaborate with experts within and beyond local government to offer councils the broadest array of support, guidance and inspiration.
We also bring our track record of securing policy wins on behalf of our councils. This includes DCN obtaining £115m of extra funding to support over 100 councils which would have otherwise faced devastating cuts in last month’s local government finance settlement.
We also successfully campaigned for the removal of a barrier to much-needed affordable homes with the Government this year announcing reform of the Housing Revenue Account which removes much of the red tape by councils wanting to build council homes.
