Meaningful devolution and sufficient funding key to delivery of 'Neighbourhood Guarantee', say councils
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Meaningful devolution, backed by sufficient and sustainable funding for councils, is key to giving communities greater control over local priorities, the Local Government Association has said in response to the Government’s proposal for a ‘Neighbourhood Guarantee’ that sets clear expectations around the level of public services communities should expect to see.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said the ‘Neighbourhood Guarantee’ would cover issues such as “cleaner streets, filled in potholes and other vital public services communities rely on”.
It added that local leaders would be asked to work closely with central government to meet these expectations “and deliver real, tangible change people can see and feel”.
People will be able to monitor whether the guarantee is being met in their area through new published data on the Local Outcomes Framework platform.
The Ministry also highlighted new Community Power Pilots that will see councils, community groups and residents co-design local services "so everyone has a voice in tackling the issues affecting them".
It also promised a crackdown on profiteering by private companies providing services to councils – “particularly those supporting vulnerable children in care” – and action to tackle the proliferation of vape shops and gambling premises on high streets.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed said: “People want to live in neighbourhoods where streets are clean and safe, the high street is vibrant, and core public services are available. But too often this isn’t what happens.
“The Government’s new Neighbourhood Guarantee sets minimum standards local people can expect to see and hold public services to account. And if things don’t improve, there are new powers to force change. This is all about showing respect for the places people call home.”
Responding to the Government’s announcement, Cllr Louise Gittins, Local Government Association Chair, said: “We have long-called for action to address the unsustainable cost pressures in children’s social care and greater powers for councils to shape thriving local communities.
“Councils share the Government’s ambition to ensure vulnerable children receive the care and support they deserve, while tackling excessive profiteering in parts of the children’s placement market, which has placed huge financial strain on local authorities."
Cllr Gittins added: “Meaningful devolution, backed by sufficient and sustainable funding for councils, is key to giving communities greater control over local priorities, from regenerating high streets to improving neighbourhood services.
“We are encouraged by the Government’s focus on neighbourhoods and place, and will work with them to secure the additional funding that is needed. Local leaders know their places best, and with the right powers and resources, councils can deliver the change residents want to see.”
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