The District Councils’ Network (DCN) notes the Government’s decision to create two unitary councils in Surrey. Under plans approved by the Government, 11...
‘Local government must remain local’ – DCN responds to Surrey decision
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DCN Updates
No evidence exists to support mega councils, study reveals
Spending and performance data shows no benefit from proposed 500k population size Claims that mega councils with populations in excess of 500,000 will save...
Councils urged to partner with prisons and be ‘smart’ by employing ex-offenders – Norse Group
Councils are urged to support training schemes for ex-offenders and give them jobs following launch of innovative job scheme with HMP Norwich - a sponsored...
DCN Conference 2026: Tickets are now on sale
We’re delighted to announce that tickets are now on sale for the DCN Annual Conference on Thursday 19 to Friday 20 March 2026. Following the success of our...
‘We have bold plans to drive change,’ says new DCN Chair
The District Councils’ Network’s new Chair took the reins last night at a crucial moment for all member councils. Cllr Richard Wright, Leader of North...
DCN Chair gives Devo Bill evidence to MPs
District councils should be given a seat at the table of new strategic authorities to ensure their longstanding housing and planning expertise is fully...
A £250 tax bombshell? Fears mount over the cost of mega councils
Concern has been expressed that taxpayers could count the cost of new mega councils after analysis shows that the existing largest local authorities have the...
DCN responds to the Fair Funding Review
The District Councils' Network has responded to the Government's Fair Funding Review 2.0 consultation. We support the aim of better matching councils’...
Ensuring LGR facilitates digital transformation: a DCN/Capita roundtable
Frustration was expressed that the transformation element of LGR – digital change, in particular – is being neglected in the rush for councils to agree new...
‘Small unitary councils can boost children’s services’
Proximity to place helps support children and families, says new report as council reorganisation looms Smaller councils can have a “natural advantage” in...
Punishing growth: Top house-building councils hit by maximum funding cut
Local government funding reform will hit the Government’s growth mission and target of building 1.5 million homes, district councils warn The councils doing...
‘The devolution label doesn’t match the contents’: DCN’s devo bill response
Mega councils could be forced on areas regardless of whether existing councils or residents want them The District Councils’ Network has responded to today’s...