Dan Peters Chris Mahony 07 December 2021

Powers warning ahead of new deals

Powers warning ahead of new deals image

A new report today warns areas reluctant to accept directly-elected leaders in the next wave of devolution deals may be offered ‘fewer powers and flexibilities’.

The report by the County Councils’ Network (CCN), Institute for Government (IfG) think-tank and consultants Grant Thornton warned the Government was ‘likely to hold a tough line in negotiations over governance arrangements’.

It comes ahead of the Government’s long-awaited levelling up White Paper, which has now been delayed from before Christmas to January.

Among the ideas thought to have been agreed is a suggestion of American-style governors for rural areas that are not a natural fit for executive mayors, as well as a levelling up quango to vet Government policies for their impact on regional inequalities.

CCN, IfG and Grant Thornton’s report raised concerns that politicians from a party different to the dominant one in the local area could win such elections, which ‘could lead to conflict and weaker rather than stronger leadership’.

The report said some local leaders felt like they were ‘operating in the dark’ and were ‘reluctant to spend time and political capital developing proposals that may go nowhere’.

A DLUHC spokesperson said: ‘Work is progressing well, with the levelling up committee having met several times and ministers working closely together to deliver the Government’s central mission.’

Read CCN's James Maker on the report here

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Housing

North West Leicestershire District Council
£64,241 to £74,525 (plus car allowance)
We are currently seeking a new Head of Housing to lead a number of key service areas Leicestershire
Recuriter: North West Leicestershire District Council

Director of People

Bolton Cares
£80,287 – subject to skills and experience
Bolton Cares is on an exciting journey of transformation and growth and we’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to help shape our future. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Cares

Director of Finance (Strategy) – deputy S151

Nottingham City Council
up to £125k
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Learning Tutor Maths WMF2142e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235.00 - £36,124.00 (pro rata)
We are looking for an inspirational tutor to deliver maths courses to our learners across Carlisle. Carlisle, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Adult Learning Tutor ESOL English WMF2144e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235 - £36,124 (pro rata)
We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual with experience of teaching ESOL. Whitehaven, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner