Jonathan Owen, chief executive of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC), discusses what parish and town councils want from the new government.

As the new government gets to work, parish and town councils are voicing their aspirations and demands to ensure their communities are better represented, resourced, and respected.

The NALC has laid out a comprehensive manifesto highlighting the critical areas where the new government can support England's 10,000 parish and town councils. These include empowering parish and town councils, giving them more autonomy, supporting digital transformation and better funding opportunities, promoting civility and respect, strengthening community resilience, building sustainable communities, enhancing community engagement, and addressing housing and development issues.

One of the central themes of the NALC manifesto is the call for greater empowerment and autonomy for parish and town councils. We seek more decision-making powers, enabling local councils to effectively and efficiently address local issues. Localised governance can be more responsive and tailored to communities' unique needs than centralised decision-making processes.

Financial constraints are a significant challenge for many parish and town councils. We stress the need for increased funding and economic autonomy to support local initiatives and infrastructure projects. It includes advocating for fairer and more funding streams, allowing parish and town councils to plan and execute long-term projects without fluctuating budgets.

A primary concern highlighted in NALC's open letter to political leaders is the need to promote civility and respect at all levels of government. The call is for a cultural shift that ensures elected representatives and community members interact with mutual respect and professionalism. This initiative aims to create a more conducive environment for effective governance and community engagement, reducing harassment and bullying, which have marred local politics in recent years.

Parish and town councils are at the frontline of managing community resilience, particularly in times of crisis. They need better support and resources to enhance their ability to respond to emergencies, whether natural disasters, health pandemics, or economic downturns. This includes access to emergency funds, training for council members, and establishing robust communication channels between local and central government.

Sustainability is another key priority. Parish and town councils advocate for more robust support in implementing environmentally sustainable practices. It includes funding for green initiatives, support for local renewable energy projects, and policies that promote sustainable development. The goal is to build communities that thrive today and are resilient and sustainable for future generations.

Fostering greater community engagement is also crucial for the vitality of local governance. The NALC manifesto calls on the new government to support initiatives that enhance public participation in local decision-making processes. This involves creating more opportunities for community members to voice their opinions, participate in local projects, and engage with their parish or town councils.

Housing and development are perennial issues for parish and town councils. We have highlighted the need for more control over local planning and development to ensure that new housing projects meet the community's needs. This includes affordable housing initiatives, infrastructure development, and preserving the character and heritage of local areas.

In an increasingly digital world, parish and town councils must embrace digital transformation to serve their communities better. We need investment in digital infrastructure, training for council members, and adoption of new technologies to enhance service delivery and community engagement.

The vision laid out by parish and town councils is one of greater empowerment, respect, and sustainability. By addressing these critical areas, the new government can ensure parish and town councils are better equipped to serve their communities, fostering a more responsive, resilient, and engaged local governance landscape. As the political landscape evolves, these grassroots voices must be heard and acted upon, ensuring that parish and town councils can fulfil their vital role in building stronger communities.

To find out more about what local government stakeholders want from the new government, check out our guide, Transforming Local Government: A Strategic Guide for Labour. Download your complimentary copy now!