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“The additional £500 million will help start to address the previously ever-growing backlog of local road repairs, which now stands at nearly £17 billion and could take more than a decade to fix."

“Councils are committed to keeping tenants and residents safe, and are keen to work with Government to drive the pace of remediation...However, as this report shows, it is still a major issue that requires significant funding and resource to address properly.

New research by the LGA has found that councils face impossible choices between maintaining and repairing existing housing stock and building new homes.

"Our collective weight, unity and voice remain our most powerful tool in lobbying for positive change for our residents and showcasing good practice, and in leading the system for sector-led improvement."

“This Bill has included some of the LGA’s long term asks, such as making it easier for councils to purchase vacant land for house building, localising planning fees, and increasing planning capacity...However, there remains concerns around how it will ensure that councils – who know their areas best and what they need – remain at the heart of the planning process."

“We are pleased to see new funding for supervised toothbrushing, which is an evidence-based and cost-effective intervention proven to improve children’s oral health.

Andrea Newman, currently Strategic Director of Communications and Engagement at Surrey County Council, has been appointed as our Director of Communications and Engagement, joining the extended Strategic Leadership Team.

“In partnership with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the LGA is supporting the establishment of an Association of Directors of Housing in 2025-26."

"The Government must consider further support for advice services like the BIPC network alongside bespoke finance options that help businesses to access finance and growth advice."

Councils desperately-need a significant and sustained increase in overall funding in the Spending Review to meet the requirements being placed on them.