Did you know Harrogate hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1982? Over 40 years later, the charming spa town was buzzing once again, this time as the venue for the Local Government Association (LGA) Conference.  

The atmosphere was one of collaboration and urgency as attendees – local government leaders, officers and policymakers – grappled with some of the most significant challenges facing local authorities today.  

For us, three key themes dominated conversations:  

1. Tackling temporary accommodation 
2. A need for greater certainty 
3. Solving the question of devolution 

Tackling the temporary accommodation crisis 

One of the most urgent issues discussed was the growing crisis in temporary accommodation (TA). The human toll of homelessness in the UK is staggering: 74,000 children currently live in temporary housing, often in unsuitable conditions such as cramped bed-and-breakfast facilities.  

These “temporary” arrangements have become long-term realities for many, far exceeding the six-week limit due to demand, and the financial burden on councils is just as severe.  

Last year, England’s councils spent a staggering £2.3 billion on TA, (three times the expenditure in 2015). These costs are straining local budgets, with some councils dedicating as much as one-third of their council tax revenue to it. The Leader of Crawley Borough Council reported one in every three pounds collected in council tax is spent on temporary accommodation alone. 

However, the problem remains unresolved, and attendees agreed on the need for sustainable, long-term solutions. Labour’s 1.5 million new homes target is a promising goal, but this will take years to achieve. In the meantime, councils are left balancing demands with longer-term ambitions, exploring ways to reduce reliance on TA while addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable families. 

Greater certainty: a sector priority 

With the conference taking place just before the Budget, discussions on funding were often speculative. However, there was a clear understanding an influx of additional funding was unlikely.  

As one attendee noted, “Shouting about needing more money is futile when the taps aren’t being turned on.” Instead, the focus shifted to calls for policy stability and predictability, crucial for effective planning and resource management. 

Without clear funding settlements or a stable policy framework, councils are left navigating an unpredictable landscape that hinders both strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations. Local leaders emphasised they were not merely asking for more money – they were crying out for clarity on their future. 

The forthcoming District Councils Network (DCN) Affordable Housing Blueprint report, previewed during the conference, illustrated that need.  

The report proposes raising the Housing Revenue Account threshold from 200 to 1,000 homes, to enable districts to build more council homes. Among other asks of the Government, it also suggests introducing a “Right to Pause,” allowing councils to temporarily halt the Right to Buy scheme during severe housing shortages.  

These measures highlight the importance of giving councils the tools and flexibility to address local challenges. Greater certainty would empower them to manage budgets with confidence, plan long-term projects and deliver the essential services their communities rely on.  

Without it, local governments are left reacting to shifting priorities rather than proactively shaping their futures. 

Devolution: not a silver bullet 

The conference also featured lively debates on devolution. The Government’s push for further devolution was met with a mix of optimism and caution. While the prospect of greater local control over decision-making is appealing, attendees noted that devolution and combined authorities are not a universal solution, as we’ve seen in the South West. 

The experience of Somerset, which transitioned to a unitary authority two years ago, serves as a cautionary tale. Despite the promised efficiencies, the county still faces huge financial challenges. This example illustrates that while devolution may streamline governance in some cases, it is not a panacea for complex local issues. 

Another concern was the increasing complexity of governance structures. Combined authorities, county councils, and new regional bodies often overlap, raising questions about efficiencies and what the landscape, on planning decisions will look like after the new devolution bill.  

Discussions also touched on the uncertain future of Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs), pan-regional partnerships and other investment vehicles, with councils questioning how these changes will affect regional economic growth and investment opportunities. 

Despite this, the conference also highlighted the opportunities that devolution presents. With a looming devolution bill, councils are preparing for a shift in how local governance operates, something which will have a tremendous impact on planning decisions.  

County elections are usually uneventful affairs. However, expect to see 2025’s vote as a litmus test for Labour nationally and a good indication of the political colours for what will likely become the new devolved authorities over the next electoral cycle.  

Looking ahead 

Local government leaders are acutely aware of the challenges they face, from the housing crisis and fiscal pressures to evolving political landscapes. Yet, the energy and collaboration on display demonstrated the sector’s resilience and determination for finding solutions. 

Whether tackling the immediate crisis of temporary accommodation, advocating for policy certainty, or navigating the complexities of devolution, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future. As one attendee put it, “The challenges are significant, but so is our capacity for innovation and partnership.” 

The insights gathered and connections made in Harrogate will likely guide the way. This collaboration is key to addressing shared challenges, seizing new opportunities and ensuring no one in their communities are left behind.