News

Councils are urging the Government to ensure that reforms focus on reducing unnecessary waste created in the first place and increasing the recyclability of packaging.

New analysis into the Housing Revenue Account for the LGA, delivered in partnership with the NFA and ARCH, and delivered by Savills, has found that the future of council housing finances hangs in the balance as increasing pressures push budgets to the brink.

“We’re delighted that the Government has listened to the longstanding concerns of the LGA and councils and is taking decisive action to ban single-use vapes from 1 June 2025. 

“We are delighted that the Government has acted on our call for a relationship reset and a new way of working with local government."

Speaking today at the LGA’s conference in Harrogate, Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, announced that the Government will consult on changes to the councillor standards system, remove the requirement for councillors’ home addresses to be published and allow councils to use virtual attendance at council meetings.

This important annual report further evidences the critical challenges facing services which support the health and wellbeing of people across our communities.

Councils stand ready to work with the Government to increase affordable housing.

“Local public health teams are working closely with the UK Health Security Agency. Surveillance, contact tracing, accurate information from trusted sources, vaccines, treatment and support are key to stop the spread.

Ahead of the Budget, the LGA has made the case for government to address the cost and demand pressures, which have pushed many councils towards the financial edge.

People are being encouraged to 'make a difference' in their communities by embarking on a rewarding career with their local council, with a new campaign.