Despite the “radical devolution” promised by the chancellor, the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill will leave Westminster firmly in control of the things that matter.
Osborne claims he is offering cities and regions self-determination - but it has to be done his way. Or it doesn't happen at all.
So the Tories have been returned with an overall majority to govern us for another five years. What does this mean for local democracy?
What genuine changes have been secured for local democracy across the UK in recent months? Is devolution creating powerhouses or poor houses?
Despite the best efforts of government, every now and again small murmurings of local democracy do break out. And they can be fun.
Looking at a set of recent planning outcomes across England: it’s clear that the localism agenda hasn’t tipped the balance in favour of grassroots communities. The same old names keep cropping up.
The Coalition’s conception of “freedom” has little to do with empowering individuals and local communities. Instead, it means enhancing corporate power by “liberating” services from public control.
Will localism form part of the forthcoming election manifestos? If so, what exactly? Some early indications on the Coalition side.
Self-build schemes can be empowering in so many ways. We need to renew and expand on the self-build legacy.
The Coalition is turning voluntary services into a cheap adjunct to privatisation - and far too many of those in voluntary services have been complicit.
Understanding how neo-liberalism can be challenged by common and reciprocal action.
The Communities and Local Government Select Committee has reported back on its inquiry into Community Rights. The government has responded – using dodgy data to reward bad performance. What’s the story?
