The Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the next government to address the funding gap faced by councils in England. The LGA, representing 315 councils, highlighted a funding shortfall of £6.2 billion over the next two years. This gap is attributed to various factors such as increased demand for services, rising costs of social care, and pressures on children’s services.
To tackle this issue, the LGA emphasized the need for long-term financial certainty and empowering councils. The association stressed the importance of sustainable funding, public service reform, and granting more powers to local authorities to drive economic growth and address housing needs.
Conservative councillor Kevin Bentley, senior vice chairman of the LGA, emphasized the vital role of local government in delivering essential services and supporting communities. He called for collaboration between the next government and local authorities to address the challenges ahead.
In addition to the LGA’s proposals, the County Councils Network (CCN) also highlighted a funding gap of £2 billion for county councils over the next two years. The CCN advocated for a minimum four-year funding settlement and increased financial support for councils to meet the growing demands on services.
Amidst these funding challenges, a campaign group, the Taxpayers’ Alliance, raised concerns about local authorities holding nearly 2 million pieces of art worth £1.5 billion, with only a fraction on public display. The group urged councils to consider selling these artworks to alleviate budget pressures.
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