In this podcast episode, Matt Masters interviews Max Caller, an esteemed figure with over 50 years of experience in local government. Caller has presided over best-value inspections and turnaround efforts for various councils. Let’s delve into the key points:

1. Characteristics of Councils in Financial Distress:
   • Weak Governance: Caller emphasizes that every council’s path to financial distress is unique, but they all share significant weaknesses in governance. These weaknesses often manifest in poor reporting mechanisms, lack of scrutiny, and an environment where staff hesitate to raise concerns.
   • Investment Decisions: Councils facing financial trouble often make risky investments. For instance, Slough issued a section 114 notice due to over £700 million in debt, primarily caused by investments in a shopping center and a housing/regeneration project.
2. Proactive Steps to Avoid S114 Notices:
   • Robust Reporting Mechanisms: Well-functioning councils have effective reporting and scrutiny processes. Encourage transparency and ensure staff feel comfortable raising concerns.
   • Risk Assessment: Regularly assess financial risks associated with investments and projects. Consider the long-term impact on the council’s financial health.
   • Debt Management: Monitor debt levels and avoid excessive borrowing. Leverage corrective actions such as selling assets, merging with other firms, or negotiating with creditors.

Remember, financial distress can be mitigated through prudent decision-making and strong governance.

In a world brimming with political shifts, from the bustling election booths of India to the intense political arenas of the US and UK, and even amidst France’s unexpected General Election, the global populace is witnessing a whirlwind of change. This year alone, billions are casting their votes, shaping the future at every level of governance. But what does this mean at the local tier, where councils and commissioners are also feeling the pulse of the electorate?

Introduction: Join us as we delve into the art of leadership amidst the ebb and flow of political landscapes with Matt Prosser, Chief Executive of Dorset Council and the esteemed President of SOLACE. With over three decades in Local Government, Matt brings a wealth of experience in steering organisations through the tumultuous seas of political transition, both locally and nationally.

Key Questions:

1. Navigating the Local Government Labyrinth: Matt shares insights from his tenure as CEX across various councils, revealing how overnight shifts from Conservative to Lib-Dem control have shaped his strategic approach.
2. Central Government Chronicles: From engaging anecdotes with David Cameron to cross-party interactions, Matt discusses the nuances of working alongside national figures and central government and the importance of proactive engagement with political manifestos.
3. Preparation is Key: Discover Matt’s strategies for preparing an organisation for political upheaval, emphasizing the significance of long-term relationships and a steadfast neutral stance.
4. The Challenge of Balance: How does a CEX juggle the demands of being a confidant to all sides while fostering positive outcomes? Matt explores the complexities of this balancing act.
5. SOLACE’s Support System: Learn about SOLACE’s initiatives in leadership development and mentorship, designed to bolster CEXs during times of political change.
6. Personal Resilience: On a personal note, Matt reflects on maintaining positivity and resilience amidst the constant flux of political dynamics.

Conclusion: As the political winds shift, the role of a Local Authority Chief Executive becomes ever more intricate. Tune in to uncover the secrets to effective leadership when the political ground is constantly moving beneath your feet.

Brand is so much more than a logo and the graphical support of an organisation. It is about the essence of what that organisation stands for, who they are and how they live that. Ta6, is a brand within Alliance Leisure, which Paul Woodford, Strategic Engagement Director leads.

Today we talk with Paul about the power of brand in leisure, looking at global, venue and product within the brand proposition.

Paul then shares the success stories of when this has worked.

I had a fantastic experience sitting down with Alison North - Deputy Chief Executive at Director Internal Operations at Somerset West and Taunton Council. She has a really interesting proposition, change and continuous improvement is most effective when you focus on specific and detailed outcomes, that are simple. If you do this both members and officers can work together to bring together some really exciting outcomes.

Really interesting discussion with Peter Holt, Chief Executive at Uttlesford District Council exploring the 2023 National Risk Register. We explore national trends, the local challenges Uttlesford face and discuss the need for clear communication from central government.

It was great to sit down with Chris O'Brien today - Recruitment Manager at Derbyshire County Council to talk about his journey and the way in which Derbyshire approaches recruitment to attract the best talent.

It was really exciting to sit down with Mark Watkins, Interim Director of Law for a number of councils, to discuss the challenges facing local authorities legal services at the present time.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Ebony Hughes, the Chief Operating Officer at IMPOWER Consulting, to delve into the intricacies of maximizing consultancy value for local authorities. Ebony brings a wealth of experience in shaping and supporting transformation within complex local government environments.

Key Discussion Points:

1. When to Hire a Consultant:
   • Identifying the right time to bring in external expertise.
   • Key indicators that signal the need for consultancy services.
   • Balancing internal capabilities with external support.
2. How to Benefit from Consultancy:
   • Strategies to ensure a collaborative and productive relationship.
   • Leveraging consultancy to drive innovation and efficiency.
   • Real-life examples of successful consultancy engagements in local government.
3. Ensuring Success:
   • Setting clear objectives and expectations from the outset.
   • The importance of stakeholder engagement and buy-in.
   • Measuring success and ensuring sustainable outcomes.

Throughout the conversation, Ebony shares her insights on overcoming common challenges, the importance of a tailored approach, and how IMPOWER’s unique methodologies have helped local authorities achieve significant improvements and savings. Whether you’re a local government leader or simply interested in the consultancy landscape, this episode offers valuable takeaways on maximizing the value of consultancy services.

In this episode, Sophie Evans, Director of Customer Delivery at the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, delves into the concept of co-creation and its impact on building community bonds.

Here are the key takeaways from your conversation:

1. Co-Design with Communities:
   • Sophie emphasizes the importance of inclusive community engagement. Rather than merely informing and pitching ideas, cities should co-design solutions with their residents.
   • Successful co-design sessions involve creating spaces where residents feel like true collaborators. This approach fosters deep partnership and trust building.
2. Place-Based Design:
   • Cities should step outside the walls of City Hall and meet residents where they are. Going into communities empowers residents and prioritizes their needs.
   • By designing inclusive spaces, cities can better address problems that impact marginalized residents.
3. Adapting to Residents’ Needs:
   • Co-creation requires flexibility. City teams must adjust in real time to navigate accessibility and equity concerns.
   • Listening to residents and adapting accordingly ensures meaningful collaboration.
4. Tapping into Play:
   • Unleashing creativity during co-design sessions is essential. Encouraging play allows for innovative solutions.
   • Co-design is not only about problem-solving but also about fostering democracy in practice.

Remember, co-creation is a collaborative process that involves ongoing cooperation and collaboration from residents, stakeholders, and local authorities. It’s about designing, implementing, and managing spaces, activities, and decision-making processes together.

This episode explores how the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea embraced these principles to strengthen community bonds and enhance services.

In this insightful episode host Matt Masters engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Ian Billham, the esteemed Chair at the Community Safety Advisors Network. They delve into the multifaceted role of local authorities in fostering secure communities and explore the innovative strategies being implemented to address contemporary safety challenges. Ian shares his expert perspective on the collaborative efforts required to maintain public safety and the importance of community involvement in creating resilient neighborhoods. Join us as we uncover the behind-the-scenes actions and proactive measures that are shaping the future of community safety.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the critical work done by local authorities and learn about the proactive solutions that are making a difference in communities across the nation.

Chris Perry is a former Director of Social Services for South Glamorgan County Council, a former Non-Executive Director of the Winchester and Eastleigh Healthcare NHS Trust and a former Director of Age Concern Hampshire.

Chris wrote an article on how as a society and as a local government sector if we tackle income inequality and poverty to reduce pressure on the NHS.

Thoroughly enjoyed sitting down with Mark Tweedie - Managing Director Brimhams Active. We discussed why now is the need to pivot to active wellebeing.

Mark is an accomplished executive level leader with over 25 years experience in the education, sport and leisure industry.

During the last decade of his career he has specialised in organisational transformation to increase efficiency and profitability, whilst redesigning services to increase impact across the domains of health, education, employability and social services.

Great to sit down with Lauren Sadler, who is a health and social care transformation consultant, exploring how we can achieve better integration between local authorities and the NHS. We explored the challenges and the solutions in a compact, but highly productive conversation.

If you start with the why, instead of the governance, the momentum can help overcome the considerable challenges to integration.

Today I sat down with the Founder of The Balance Collective, Clara Wilcox to discuss the actions both employees and employers can take so that parents can have a positive return to work.

We covered in our conversation:

• What issues do you find that parents have when they return to work?
• How do parents feel about returning?
• How does the current cost of living crisis impact parents’ choices?
• What is the best practice?
• Why it’s important to have equity for return-to-work support – considering those who have breaks for bereavement, other caring responsibility, health needs.
• What you can do to support parents before they return (and before they leave!)
• The importance of a return-to-work induction and how to plan it.

Clara Wilcox can be reached at hello@thebalancecollective.co.uk

Thank you to RPNA for their continued support.

Local government change programs, need to add value for money, achieve the desired outcomes and fundamentally be successful.

I sat down with Ray Wagner, an experienced transformation programme manager and consultant. He has a proven ability in both the public and private sector to successful deliver major strategic change programmes - translating strategy into action.

He answered the below questions:

• What is a Programme and why go to the effort?
• How to scope a programme.
• What’s needed to support a Programme to be successful?
• Using methodologies
• Don’t be afraid to say “no” or” stop”

Having worked for both local government, the NHS and now consultancy advising authorities Alex Mileman is an expert in the transformational change programs that add value to adult social care. It was very enjoyable to sit down with him to discuss this topic in more detail.

All views from Alex are his own views.

.It was great to sit down with Mark Fowler the Deputy Chief Executive, Corporate Director of Community Wellbeing of Luton Borough Council. We explored Mark's career, how Luton is continually evolving to improves outcomes for residents and his views on how on a national scale improvements can be made in the sector.

Great to talk to Aisling Khan former Strategic Director People and Communities (DCS and DASS)/Joint Deputy Chief Executive with the Council of the Isles of Scilly.

Aisling talked through how partnerships and ED&I are critical components in local government care functions.

Andy Sharp, Director of Social Care, Health & Housing at Central Bedfordshire provides some really insightful observations into the challenges and pressures local authorities are facing in local government. We talked prioritisation of spend and the new regulatory changes to adult social services. Central Bedfordshire are doing some great work to invest now into their care facilities to help reduce future stress on the service and system in the future.

Public health is a strategic service within local government. It is involved in shaping strategies, providing data and intelligence, designing evaluation criteria and defining outcomes from the outset of all key projects1. The transfer of public health from the NHS to local government and Public Health England (PHE) is one of the most significant extensions of local government powers and duties in a generation3. Public health in local government can make a real, large-scale difference to promoting the independence of people with long-term chronic conditions, preventing ill health, improving people’s lives and wellbeing, and reducing health inequalities4.Glenn is passionate about driving population change to provides better outcomes for the community that he serves.Together we covered:· What is public health?· Why it is useful for PH to be in LA’s · Challenges of being in LA’s· The future issues public health will have to face.

Today I spoke with Kelsie Wall to explore the role that SEN Caseworkers have in local government. Really interesting episode, particularly regarding the cost of engaging independent schools to step in where there are not enough spaces within local authority run schools.

In this insightful episode, John Percy explores the dynamic transformation of town centers. We delve into strategies that bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring these vital community hubs remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. From adaptive reuse of historic buildings to smart urban planning, join us as we uncover the blueprint for vibrant, future-proofed town centers.

In this episode, host Matt Masters interviews Tim Atkins to explore how leveraging corporate priorities and effective project delivery can drive growth and shape a unique place identity. The discussion centers around the strategies that authorities and organizations can adopt to stand out in a competitive landscape.

Key Points Covered:

1. Understanding Corporate Priorities:
   • Tim explains the concept of corporate priorities and their significance in guiding organizational success.
   • He highlights how clear and strategic priorities can align with business goals to ensure cohesive project delivery.
2. Project Delivery as a Growth Driver:
   • The episode delves into the role of effective project management in driving growth.
   • Tim shares insights on how successful project delivery can enhance an organization’s reputation and attract investment.
3. Creating a Unique Attractor:
   • Authorities are constantly striving to find their unique attractor or differentiator.
   • Tim discusses what sets successful authorities apart, including their ability to attract business, investment, visitors, and talent.
4. Case Studies and Examples:
   • The episode features real-world examples of organizations that have successfully used corporate priorities and project delivery to shape their identity.
   • Tim provides case studies of places that have created a distinctive identity, drawing in business and talent.
5. Strategies for Success:
   • Practical tips and strategies for authorities looking to define their unique attractor.
   • Tim emphasizes the importance of innovation, community engagement, and strategic planning in creating a compelling place identity.

Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how to leverage corporate priorities and project delivery to drive growth and shape a unique identity that stands out in today’s competitive environment.

In this insightful episode, Jane Meek, a renowned expert in development and delivery in the North of England, delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of driving development and regeneration in the region. Jane shares her extensive experience and knowledge, highlighting the critical importance of developing the North to ensure balanced national growth.

Key Points Discussed:

• Challenges in the North: Jane outlines the specific hurdles faced in the North, including economic disparities, infrastructure gaps, and social issues.
• Strategies for Success: Practical approaches and strategies for effective delivery of development projects, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions that address local needs.
• Importance of Development: The broader significance of developing the North, not just for regional prosperity but for the overall economic health of the country.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples and success stories that illustrate the impact of well-executed development projects in the North.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and rewards of delivering development in the North, and why it is a crucial endeavor for the future.

Today we sat down with Colin Copus to discuss the role of the Councillor; and how this is changed and how there is arguably insufficient resource available to Councilors.

We then talked through the piece of work that Colin wrote for the LGiU a ‘manifesto for councillors’ https://lgiu.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/A-Manifesto-for-Councillors-Colin-Copus-paper.pdf

In this episode, we delve into the critical role that public-private partnerships (PPPs) play in addressing the housing crisis in urban areas. Our guest, John Percy shares insights on how collaboration between government entities and private developers can lead to innovative solutions. We explore successful case studies, discuss financing models, and highlight the challenges faced by PPPs. Whether it’s affordable housing, mixed-use developments, or sustainable design, join us as we uncover the synergies that drive urban housing forward.

Lisa Pinney MBE has been the Chief Executive at the Coal Authority since June 2018. Prior to this role, she spent 20 years at the Environment Agency, where she served as the Director of the West Midlands Area.

Lisa is passionate about diversity and inclusion and was awarded an MBE for her work in 2014. Additionally, Lisa serves as the chair of the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, a board member of the Association of Chief Executives, and an advisory board member of the Ausurus Group (European Metal Recycling Ltd).

Today we discussed, the opportunity of mine water heat and what the Coal Authority are doing to enable it and work with local authorities (for example the successful Gateshead scheme) to make this happen across GB. We also explored the work the Coal Authority does with local authorities and other LRF partners on emergency response, public safety and subsidence in particular (also Tip safety) and how we support as a statutory consulted in planning.

Key questions covered in the interview:

1. Mine Water Heat:
   • How does the Coal Authority collaborate with local authorities to promote mine water heat utilisation?
   • Can you share any specific examples of successful projects, like the Gateshead scheme, that demonstrate the potential of mine water heat across Great Britain?
   • What challenges or barriers exist in implementing mine water heat initiatives, and how is the Coal Authority addressing them?
2. Emergency Response and Public Safety:
   • What role does the Coal Authority play in emergency response coordination with local authorities and other partners?
   • How do you ensure public safety in areas affected by subsidence or other mining-related issues?
   • Could you elaborate on the measures taken to enhance tip safety and prevent incidents?
3. Statutory Consultation in Planning:
   • How does the Coal Authority contribute to the planning process as a statutory consultee?
   • What criteria or considerations guide your input during planning consultations?
   • Are there any recent examples where the Coal Authority’s involvement influenced planning decisions positively?

Join host Matt Masters as he delves into the intricate world of local government planning with Tracey Coleman, a seasoned Director of Planning with a wealth of experience in the UK’s local authorities. In this insightful episode, they explore the pivotal role of local development orders in shaping our communities. Tracey brings her extensive knowledge to the table, discussing how strategic planning and local regulations can lead to sustainable development and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re a planning professional, a local government enthusiast, or just curious about how cities evolve, this conversation will shed light on the often-overlooked yet crucial functions that make our localities livable and dynamic. Don’t miss this deep dive into the mechanics of municipal progress with two experts at the forefront of urban planning.

In this engaging episode, host Matt Masters sits down with Matthew Trewartha to explore strategies for unlocking pace, fostering trust in experts, and expediting plans to achieve better results. They delve into real-world examples, discuss the impact on team experiences, and reveal how these practices contribute to effective succession planning. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring conversations!

In this episode host Matt Masters engages with the esteemed Ciarán Hayes, a veteran in Irish local government service with 42 years of dedicated experience. As the former Chief Executive of Sligo County Council and a current board member of both the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the National Oversight and Audit Commission (NOAC), Mr. Hayes brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Together, they delve into the pivotal role local authorities play in spearheading climate initiatives. They discuss actionable strategies for mobilizing communities, the importance of integrating sustainable practices into urban planning, and how local governance can set the stage for impactful environmental policies.

Listeners will gain insights into Mr. Hayes’ extensive experience in public service, exploring how his work with SEAI and NOAC aligns with his commitment to fostering sustainable energy solutions and transparent governance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how local action can lead to significant global progress in the fight against climate change.

In today’s episode, I sat down with Paul Woodcock, interim strategic regeneration, development, and place shaping advisor.

Paul previously served as the Strategic Director of Regeneration and Environment at Rotherham Council. His responsibilities included overseeing economic development, environmental initiatives, and place-making strategies. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping policies and projects that contributed to the borough’s growth and revitalisation.

In this immensely interesting conversation Paul speaks about:

· Economic Development and Industrial/Economic Strategy and what this could mean for Local Government and what are the opportunities.

· How local authorities can put plans and strategies in place to grow the local economy and then how to implement these strategies.

· The vital role of collaboration and the triple helix.

· Finally, how to put these elements into a wider context, when creating beautiful places for local communities to enjoy. Specifically focusing on the importance of transport, residential, green spaces and culture & leisure in place making.

Today we sat down with Dr Peter Eckersley who is an Associate Professor in Public Policy and Management at Nottingham Business School. His research focuses on central-local government relations, public policy, climate change, sustainability and public accountability. Peter is also Managing Editor of Local Government Studies and Co-Convenor of the UK Political Studies Association's Specialist Group on Local Politics.

Alongside his post at NBS, Peter also works part-time at the Leibniz Institute for Research on Society and Space in Erkner (near Berlin), where he studies climate policy in German cities.

Today we explored Peter’s article on “Structure, Agency, and Local Climate Governance: How Do Individual Actors Exploit Local Contexts to Shape Policymaking in Smaller Cities and Towns?” he co-produced with Wolfgang Haupt and Leonie Lauga.

In this the authors explore the interplay between structural conditions and individual agency in local climate policymaking. This can be applied by local government to policy making around climate but is also much more broadly linked to policy development across local government.

Here are the key points:

1. Structural Conditions and Climate Action:
   • Previous studies emphasize that structural factors significantly influence local climate policy. Factors such as population size, wealth, education levels, civil society engagement, and political dynamics impact a city’s ambition in climate mitigation and adaptation.
   • Larger, wealthier cities with active civil society organizations and green parties tend to be climate “forerunners,” while smaller municipalities with older populations and weaker civil society engagement may lag behind in climate action.
2. Role of Agency:
   • The article highlights the role of individual agency in shaping climate-related policies. Despite challenging local conditions, active individuals within municipal administrations can drive ambitious climate policy.
   • These “unusual suspects” or “ordinary cities” demonstrate that agency matters, even in less favorable contexts.
3. Framing Policies for Local Support:
   • The study draws on fieldwork in 11 German towns to show how municipal managers frame climate policies. Their framing strategies aim to gain local support for climate action.
   • Socio-economic, demographic, and political conditions influence these framings, but individual agency remains crucial.
4. Two-Dimensional Framework:
   • The authors propose a two-dimensional framework for future research on structure and agency in local governance.
   • They caution that studying this interplay can be challenging but essential for understanding effective policymaking.

In summary, while structural conditions set the stage, individual actors play a vital role in shaping climate policies at the local level.

This episode delves into Stockport’s place shaping journey, with Paul Richards, Director of Development and Regeneration, Stockport Council and Chief Executive, Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation.

Stockport is transforming itself into an attractive place to live, work, and connect, with ambitious investments in heritage buildings, architecture, and green spaces. The challenge of effective place shaping is a critical part of the council’s role, and Stockport’s journey exemplifies this.

.Great to sit down with Rowan Cole, Director of Coalface Engagement, to discuss the importance of planning in communications and engagement in planning.

Today Rowan answered the following questions:

• How does effective communication improve the reception of Local Plans when presented to local communities?
• What are some common challenges local governments face in engaging with their communities on Planning matters?
• How does communications and engagement protect Council's reputation in the face of large scale private development proposals?
• What role does technology play in enhancing communication and engagement on planning matters?
• What emerging trends or practices should local governments be aware of to improve their engagement strategies?

Thank you to our sponsors RPNA, who drive sustainable transformation by combining innovative thinking, established methodology, and boundless enthusiasm to unlock an organisation's potential and deliver lasting change.

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Dickens, the Assistant Director Planning & Building Control at Manchester City Council.

Mark shares insights into the critical role of building control within the city, emphasizing why it’s an exciting and impactful career path.

At present there are two exciting vacancies within the Building Control Team. One leading the entire building control function, and one managing one of the two teams.

Mark talked with passion why Manchester is a brilliant place to work and why anyone working in Building Control should look at the opportunities within Manchester.

Victoria Camp is Director - Climate at Local Partnership LLP. We are exploring solutions to the challenges that face parents who work. We discussed:

Is work/life balance possible?

How do you find your voice as a new parent?

Victoria's career journey and how Local Partnerships and local government support families (and also some lessons learned) - when people are more important than policy!

Playing to your strengths as part of many teams - team family, team work, and team YOU.

Let's talk about guilt.....

An interesting and highly relevant episode, as many of us wear more than one hat.

Always a pleasure to sit down with Tim Jenkins, our Culture and Heritage Specialist Advisor. Today Tim helped us break down how to secure external funding. Specifically we discussed: scoping the project, choosing the right funder, complete the application and project implementation and evaluation.

Today I sat down with Sam Fox, a Chartered Town Planner with 30 years’ experience of working in local government, currently providing consultancy and interim services for the public sector.

Sam has extensive knowledge of how local government operates, which provides him with invaluable insights into how to run services, and how to successfully secure investment and grant funding within the sector.

Today we discussed:

“How to balance the need to encourage inward investment with the constraints of the planning system to deliver effective place-shaping.”

The solution is bringing these competing roles within local government and central government together. This is something Sam has been grappling with throughout his 30 year career and he draws on some examples of this, from the local to the national level.

The key topics we cover in our discussion are:

· Working positively with innovators

· The importance of holding onto what is right but being flexible if change is needed.

· Strong local leadership is key

· The importance of micro and small businesses

· Nationally significant projects – the importance of team work - from No 10 to the local level!

Suzanne Malcolm is a passionate Place professional, who is currently Deputy Chief Executive - Place at South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils.

Suzanne talked through the challenges of delivering net zero in local government,

We discussed how local government has stepped up to the challenge of reducing carbon from its own operations, despite the difficulties and delays in central government.

Finally, we looked to the future and to the significant challenges councils must overcome in order to get to net zero as councils and as places.

Today we sat down with Alex and Louise Jelley, who are Directors at Alpine Planning Ltd. We discussed how local authorities can properly resource planning functions to deliver on their large scale development and regeneration programs.

The key points we covered were:

• The importance of political buy-in, and how to get it
• Proactivity. Looking for solutions not problems. Problems are easy to identify. Getting over hurdles and finding answers is the tricky bit
• Dedicated resource to specific projects
• External support and funding (TCPA New Communities Group, for instance)
• Use of consultants – planning, landscape architects, transport, legal
• Planning Performance Agreements - mean the Council isn't paying over and above for consultants. It washes its own face! It can cover most of if not all of the consultant fee to work on the scheme and this means that council money can go on other things such as grow your own planners, training for newly qualified staff etc. Win – win
• Regular update meetings with applicant so they feel advised and in the know
• Available by phone or email every day
• Trust between council and consultant is key. Need to build reputation and relationships. Consultants can help improve performance and provide support
• Ability for planning officers within the Council to focus on other priorities. The council tells us what they want
• Councils get what they pay for in terms of experience and the ability to deal with majors. Major apps need specifically experienced planners. Skills are learned over years not months
• Talk about successes – make sure the wider community understands the infrastructure being delivered as a result and doesn’t just see road works and lost fields

.Sarah Longlands is the Chief Executive of Centre for Local Economic Strategies. Sarah is an expert in regional and local economic development and argues for economic and social justice and the creation of places which enable people to live good lives. Her knowledge and passion for the sector is inspiring and she talked me through the need to re defining the narrative around local government and the need for economic strategies to focus on creating inclusive economies rather than just growth.

SaveTheHighStreet.org launched in August 2016 with the the release of a Manifesto that outlined a new vision for the high street and how we achieve it together.

Today, SaveTheHighStreet.org is led by a passionate dedicated team, an Advisory Board of 200+ high street businesses and industry experts, a fast-growing community of Local Champions and dozens of other partners across both public and private sectors. Together they have supported over 25,000 local businesses in the U.K. and we’re just getting started.They focused their conversations on the need to work with the next generation of retailers, in light of diminishing occupational demand from the national multiple retail chains.

Great to sit down with Alex Schlagman, Co Founder of Savethehighstreet.org and Andrew McDonald, retail property expert, where we discussed:

How to fix our high streets in light of fewer larger-brand retail requirements ;and how the public and private sector can work in partnership to address the vacancy challenges in our town centres?

Also, great to launch our partnership with Rich Hanrahan and RPNA. RPNA work with you to design, build and deliver leadership, wellbeing and transformation programmes that are people centred, digitally enabled and developed for the future of public service provision. They are a fantastic partner with public sector organisations across the UK.

Today we sat down with Martin Walker, Senior Director Place, Local Partnership LLP to discuss: ‘In the midst of a housing crisis, and facing severe financial pressures, how can councils best respond to these challenges in their areas?’

Our conversation explored three broad areas:

• Considering options to help manage the spiralling demand (and therefore cost) of temporary accommodation in their areas, through measures to boost affordable housing
• Reviewing progress made by councils’ own delivery vehicles which have been set up to bring about housing delivery in their areas
• Councils’ own delivery programmes for housing, through their Housing Revenue Accounts (which for many councils means considering whether to reopen them)

Local Partnerships have created some great free tools for local authority leaders, links of which are below.

• Temporary Accommodation Model: Temporary accommodation model - Local Partnerships
• Housing Delivery Vehicle Toolkit: Housing Delivery Vehicles Toolkit (localpartnerships.gov.uk)
• Prioritising Housing Pipelines Toolkit: Prioritising housing pipelines - Local Partnerships

Culture and heritage can sometimes be an after thought for local authorities; but, it is imperative that you get a strategy in place. Today we sat down with Dr Tim Jenkins, a culture & heritage advisor who supports local authorities define and then realise their culture and heritage ambitions.

We discussed:

1. The Future of Local Authority Museums

(Legislation, Funding, Societal Cohesion, Place-shaping & Identity, Interpretation of Collection)

2. Managing & Conserving Public Heritage

(Managing Historic Assets, Ownership, Planning Policy, Physical and Intellectual Access, Relationships with National Bodies)

3. Importance of a Cohesive Strategy

(Making the tough decisions - Asset or Liability, Disposals in best interest of Historic Asset, Place Shaping and Heritage-led Regeneration)

Today Alison and I explored how by utilising the levers of flexible working and placemaking we can tackle inequality within society.

Ian Fytche is Chief Executive of North Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire. Ian began his career in construction, focused on project and contract management.

He spent 15 years working in sport, becoming director and chief operating officer of Sport England, where he led complex projects, including the redevelopment of Wembley Stadium and the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

Ian is Vice-Chair of the DCN Chief Executives Group and has facilitated delivery of DCN projects on health economics and pathways to net zero.

Today he answered a key question, namely: How to maximise your place shaping potential as a district council.

Our conversation had 5 key sections:

1. Starting points…what is place shaping?

2. Navigating routes into place…what are key success factors in place leadership?

3. Building on experience…examples of place leadership in North Kesteven?

4. Stuff that gets in the way…barriers to place shaping?

5. Imagining the future – the place of 2030…2040…2050…?

Simon Fletcher wants to see a disruptor mentality utilised in local government to provide fresh new solutions to the problems the sector is facing.

We explored the need for continual investment in culture as a starting point. The need to try a new approach when a solution previously utilised no longer works and then the need for the regional and national inter council collaboration to push projects and sector improvement plans forwards.

Thoroughly enjoyed sitting down with Deputy Leader Cllr Greg Marshall and Deputy Chief Executive Zulf Darr, at Broxtowe Borough Council to discuss the Beeston project. We explored the journey of this project, the hurdles that have been overcome, the legacy and impact the development has and what the future holds for place shaping in Beeston.

This is a fantastic example of what local government can achieve, with ambition, governance and partnerships.

.Today with Co Presenter Amy Cox, we interviewed Nikki Davies, Chief Executive of Meeting Place, a nationally recognised expert in providing strategies to developers and property owners on how to communicate their projects and their social and environmental impact.

We explored with Nikki:

• What her current role and remit was at Meeting Place?
• What has been her journey to get to be Managing Director?
• How she measures social impact?
• How do you achieve social impact through the built environment?
• What are the challenges in the sector?
• What are the opportunities in the sector?
• What does the future hold for place and these sort of initiatives?

Today we sat down with David Thompson, Assistant Director - Planning at North East Derbyshire District Council. We discussed issues around the supply of new planners joining the profession, embracing IT to find innovative ways to engage with the community and where David's passion for planning comes from.