Neighbourhood governance hub

The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill will require local authorities to 'secure the effective governance' of neighbourhood areas. In addition, we know that many local authorities are considering their neighbourhood governance provision in view of Local Government Reorganisation. 

The Society for Local Council Clerks defines community governance as “the way in which people and organisations work together and independently, making decisions for the benefit of the local community.” A related concept is that of 'hyperlocal governance', which IPPR North refers to as “community-based approaches below the local authority level”.  

For the purposes of this hub, we will draw on both definitions, identifying neighbourhood governance as the way in which people and organisations work together through formal structures, below the local authority level, for the benefit of the local community. Neighbourhood governance can take place in a range of ways, from town and parish councils to neighbourhood area committees, citizen juries, resident associations and others.  

The LGA is committed to the principle that local areas are best placed to decide what form of community engagement is appropriate for their context.  

We also believe that councils should receive new burdens funding to reflect that delivering neighbourhood governance – in a way which truly empowers communities – requires resources. As their role evolves, elected members will require support to engage with neighbourhood structures. 

Councils are a key partner in the development of social infrastructure throughout their communities. This role should be empowered further in recognition that social infrastructure is critical to successful neighbourhood governance. 

It is vital that neighbourhood governance structures are designed in a way which empowers communities to engage with wider public services. The LGA would like to see at the very least, a requirement for the involvement of health, police, fire services and education providers in neighbourhood structures.

There must also be alignment between this proposal and the Government’s wider commitments regarding neighbourhood-based reform – such as the NHS 10 Year Plan and the Pride in Place Programme – which local government will have a critical role in shaping and delivering. Otherwise, there is a risk of duplication and siloed working. 

In addition, the ability to measure impact and outcomes is a key component in the effectiveness of neighbourhood governance structures. However, this should be achieved in a way that is not prescriptive and burdensome for the local authority and community.