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"It is vitally important that councils retain oversight of the activities allowed in their local areas so that they can manage different interests, including the need to contain COVID-19, accessibility issues, the interests of local residents and any competing demands between different businesses."

“We are pleased the Government has indicated it is working on a comprehensive plan to address the ongoing financial challenges councils face this financial year. We urge the Government to bring forward details as soon as possible and ensure it address three key elements of the pressures facing councils."

As Britain braces itself for a heatwave this week, councils are urging people to take all necessary health precautions against the rising temperatures, while maintaining social distancing and protecting those most vulnerable to coronavirus.

"Museums, galleries and libraries have adapted imaginatively to lockdown, providing new and innovative services for their communities, but they have been unable to generate income during this time putting many at risk of closure."

"Social care remains on the frontline in the fight against coronavirus and excess deaths in care homes continues to be higher than the five-year average, compared to hospitals which have seen a decline, leaving our older people and most vulnerable at risk."

"This announcement provides some much-needed clarity on a planned return to normal life for those whose lives have been completely changed by the impact of coronavirus."

"We are pleased the Government has acted on our call for an extension of the time given to commence planning permissions that would otherwise lapse."

A post-pandemic building boom of 100,000 affordable homes a year is needed to provide housing fit for social care, health and other key workers who have fought coronavirus on the frontline and the families of those who lost their lives, a new report by the Local Government Association sets out today.

"We agree that councils must be fully funded and have local flexibility to deliver any scheme that aims to provide additional support and services to vulnerable children and young people over the summer."

"This report highlights the work that still needs to be done to ensure BAME communities are not disproportionately impacted by coronavirus."