NALC calls for a strengthened partnership with the government

At our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 7 November 2024, we pressed for a closer partnership with the new government, spotlighting England's 10,000 parish and town councils as essential pillars of local democracy and community development.

The AGM called on the government to formally recognise parish and town councils as the first tier of governance and fully integrate them into national and regional policy discussions. It urged the government to expand its "reset" of relationships beyond the 317 principal authorities, emphasising that parish and town councils understand local needs in ways only possible at the grassroots level.

The AGM also advocated for a more inclusive approach to devolution, where funding is not dependent on creating combined authorities but instead based on the geography and governance model that best serves the interests and circumstances of the communities concerned.

Safety and civility in public life were prominent concerns, with the AGM calling on the government to adopt recommendations from the Committee on Standards in Public Life and the Jo Cox Civility Commission. These measures aim to address abuse and intimidation faced by public officials, fostering a more respectful culture across local governance.

Highlighting the critical role of parish and town councils in shaping local planning and development, the AGM argued for increased influence in the planning system and dedicated funding to support neighbourhood planning and local design efforts. Additionally, they stressed the untapped economic potential of rural areas, which could generate up to £19 billion in extra tax revenue if supported by targeted policies addressing rural challenges. We encouraged the government to work with the Rural Coalition on these vital issues.

The AGM's resolutions underscored our commitment to a more engaged and inclusive approach to local governance, where parish and town councils have a meaningful role in shaping decisions and building resilient communities across England. As the government advances its devolution agenda, we hope these proposals foster a more potent, collaborative partnership that benefits local communities nationwide.