Searching for stability

As an elections geek, seeing democracy in action last week was heartening, particularly so as threats to the democratic process grow across the world. Kudos to the elections teams and returning officers up and down the country for delivering democracy, it is local government at its best.

Whatever your politics, a Labour government will see local authorities looking forward to a period of continuity, stability and greater certainty.

This change comes at a crucial time when we are grappling with financial constraints, housing shortages, slow growth and many more challenges. Angela Rayner becomes secretary of state with Jim McMahon and Matthew Pennycook as ministers in the ‘newly rebranded' Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the shadow team slotting into their government positions. There is much to be said for continuity.

That there have been 16 housing minsters since 2010 highlights the challenge councils have faced in terms of policy coherence and long-term planning, hampering efforts to deliver effectively. Keir Starmer's promise of multi-year funding settlements offers hope, but the real test will be whether the total funding gets close to matching the level of need. Addressing this mismatch is crucial in delivering broader reforms in social care, housing, and economic development.

The Government hit the ground running in its first week with a reintroduction of compulsory housebuilding targets, and a shake-up of planning regulations is expected. The PM and Rayner also met the English metro mayors this week, a signal of an inclusive approach to work with political leaders of all colours to deliver major economic growth.

The Government's emphasis on long-term planning, along with a more empowered local governance landscape, will be key aspects of an emerging framework to deliver for communities in the future.