Ellie Ames 21 November 2024

Call for ‘courage’ to fix council finances

Call for ‘courage’ to fix council finances image
Image: Mistervlad / Shutterstock.com

A think-tank has urged the Government to show ‘political courage’ in reforming the local government finance system in next spring’s comprehensive spending review.

A new report by Localis warns there are no easy solutions to several ‘crises’ facing councils, particularly cost pressures in temporary accommodation, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and adult social care.

But it says steps to radical reform must be taken during this parliament, starting with an update to the formula for allocating central government grants to councils, which the Government committed to in the Autumn Budget.

Localis also proposed devolving revenue-raising powers, including ‘tourist taxes’ and environmental levies; reforming business rates; and either revaluing council tax bands or adding more and removing the single-person discount.

Localis chief executive Jonathan Werran said: ‘Fixing a broken system will require political choices and the expenditure of political capital – there will be winners and losers.

‘However, as our report highlights, there is much in the wider arsenal of fiscal policy to draw on for a reformed local taxation system that is more efficient, fairer and sustainable.’

What’s happening inside the LGPS? image

What’s happening inside the LGPS?

Get the most informed take on the challenges and opportunities that substantial reform will bring at this year’s PLSA Local Authority Conference.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner