“As a member-led, cross-party national organisation, the LGA exists to ensure local government can speak powerfully with one voice to national government on the challenges facing councils and communities.
LGA Chair, Cllr Louise Gittins, said:
“As a member-led, cross-party national organisation, the LGA exists to ensure local government can speak powerfully with one voice to national government on the challenges facing councils and communities.
“The LGA brings together councils across all tiers, regions and parties, supported by political group offices for the Labour Group, Conservative Group, Reform UK Group, Liberal Democrat Group, Independent Group, and a Green Group soon to be established.
“As local government continues to evolve, so too must the LGA. The LGA’s strength and legitimacy depend on remaining relevant to an evolving membership base and a changing democratic mandate. We take seriously the views of all our members and recognise the importance of continually demonstrating value, relevance and responsiveness to councils across the country from every political group.
“The LGA’s ability to advocate effectively for the sector depends on broad membership from across the political spectrum, ensuring the interests and priorities of all councils are heard by national government.
“It is therefore disappointing to learn that Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has announced its intention to no longer participate as part of the LGA. The council currently remains in membership and we have been in contact prior to and following their announcement. We remain ready to discuss any concerns they may have and the benefits of continued membership.
“It would be a great pity if we were unable to continue working closely with the council on their local issues and community campaigns, including Walleys Quarry.
“Taken together, our support to members through our policy, workforce, improvement and legal teams provides strong value for money, with 316 of 317 councils either reconfirming or rejoining LGA membership for this year. For every £1 in membership subscription, the LGA attracts a further £7 through external funding, grants, sponsorship and wider sector investment.
“For clarity, the LGA office does not have a rooftop bar. It does, however, provide office space for our member organisations to meet.
“I look forward to continuing to work with all member councils to build on all we have achieved so far.”
ENDS