Many people living outside the biggest cities face a visible contraction in local services after the Government today announced severe funding cuts for some...
Cuts to council funding will hit housebuilding and growth
read more
Press Releases
DCN responds to launch of reorganisation consultations
The Government has today announced consultations on local government reorganisation in the six areas which are part of the Devolution Priority Programme. In...
‘Don’t cut out the voice of local people’: DCN responds to planning reforms
The District Councils’ Network has responded to Government plans to strip councils of their power to block large housing developments. The Ministry of...
Temporary accommodation freeze costs equals 1,100 social homes a year
A funding freeze on Government support for temporary accommodation is draining district councils of £268m a year – enough money to build over a thousand...
‘Local government must remain local’ – DCN responds to Surrey decision
The District Councils’ Network (DCN) notes the Government’s decision to create two unitary councils in Surrey. Under plans approved by the Government, 11...
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...
‘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...
‘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...