WIREDGOV

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s People and Places Board, responded to the final report by the Industrial Strategy Commission, published yesterday, 

“This report reflects many ambitions held by councils who have a crucial role to play in developing the Industrial Strategy to ensure it drives growth and addresses economic inequalities across our towns and cities.

“To build a world-class economy, all councils need greater autonomy and funding from central government to build more homes, improve roads, provide people with the skills they need to succeed and increase access to fast and reliable digital connectivity.

“Devolution is key to achieving these goals. Devolving powers to councils will unleash the full potential of our local economies and radically transform public services by targeting money where it’s most needed and making the most of each place’s unique assets.

“However, the pace of devolution in some areas risks being lost because of the current top-down approach to governance. A more flexible government approach to agreeing deals which may work best with different frameworks could help get those deals signed and delivered more quickly.

“Place-based approaches to investment and public services that support inclusive growth must be available to all who call for it.”

Notes to editors

1. The Industrial Strategy Commission’s final report can be read here.