News

“Levelling up has the potential to transform people’s lives and livelihoods, with councils best placed to make this happen."

Cities can level up the country, grow an economy fit for the future and tackle the climate crisis if they have the right resources and extra powers, urban leaders say today.

Costly competitions between councils vying for vital funding pots should be replaced to help realise the Government’s levelling up agenda.

“Levelling up should be led by evidence of where crucial investment needs to go to, not based on costly competitive bids between areas."

"The Government must now work with councils and combined authorities to overcome any additional local challenges caused by the delay and make the introduction of the fund a success."

“Turning levelling up from a political slogan to a reality will only be achieved if councils have the powers and funding they need to address regional inequality, tackle concentrations of deprivation and make towns and communities across England attractive places to live, work and visit."

“Levelling up is at the heart of what councils and combined authorities want for their communities and they have a critical role to play in achieving the 12 national missions set out in this wide-ranging white paper."

“As this report highlights, awarding funding in small pots on a competitive basis has created uncertainty and hindered councils’ ability to plan strategically for their communities.

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."