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Councils have called on the Government to provide urgent clarity on the future of the Community Renewal Fund, after announcements of successful projects have been delayed.

“Councils are at the forefront of efforts to lead the recovery from the pandemic, which includes delivering economic growth that is sustainable and benefits all. We want to work closely with the Government to help deliver on its levelling up commitment and deliver local investment across all parts of the country."

"The COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated the strength of councils' local leadership and the benefits that come from national and local government working together in partnership."

Responding to a report from the House of Lords Public Services Committee on the Government’s ambition to level up the country, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said: “The pandemic has shown that, with the right funding and freedoms, councils can improve people’s lives. It is therefore important that this report recognises that the recovery from COVID-19 needs to include greater powers being given to local councils and their communities. “Bringing greater resources and powers over key responsibilities, such as skills, transport and housing, closer to

The LGA is calling on the Government to use the Queen’s Speech to bring forward “turbo-charged” proposals for devolution that give all councils across country the power to meet the challenges and opportunities facing their communities over the coming decade.

"On the back of this report, councils and parliamentarians should now unite to ensure the Government’s upcoming Devolution and Recovery White Paper brings forward at pace a new devolution settlement for England, led by councils and their local communities.”

Commenting on the Government’s new Levelling Up Fund announced in today’s Spending Review, Cllr Kevin Bentley, Chair of the Local Government Association’s People and Places Board said:

"Councils have played a crucial role during the current crisis and have demonstrated the strength that comes from local leaders able to work with others and their communities."

“Councils have proven that they are already leaders of place. This guidance will help councils to attract investment in the right infrastructure to help their communities meet their full potential.” 

“It is encouraging that today’s Queen’s Speech has signalled a renewed energy in favour of English devolution."