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
read more
Press Releases
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...
Social care reorganisation offers ‘chance to reset’ services
Proposals to disaggregate adult social care services could spur prevention focus. District councils’ local connection gives them a “prevention superpower”...
Slashing preventative services and home-building incentives won’t solve councils’ funding crisis
Changes in how funding is distributed between councils appear set to result in the erosion of local government services across vast swathes of England. The...
The public must have the final say on mega councils
It’s undemocratic not to proactively seek views of communities on council reorganisation The side-lining of the public in determining the future of...
DCN responds to spending review: prevention spend is a long-term investment
The District Councils’ Network has responded to the Chancellor’s unveiling today of the spending review. We are particularly supportive of the scale of the...