Poor-quality housing is a major public health issue driving avoidable illness, NHS costs and pressure on local systems. In this episode, Matt Masters and researcher Faye Sanders explore how damp, cold and insecure homes harm physical and mental health, why quality must sit alongside quantity, and how stronger cross-sector partnerships can deliver healthier, safer homes for communities.

London’s housing system is failing, with delivery far below need and housing starts collapsing across most boroughs. A slow, complex and risk‑averse planning system, rising service charges, and the decline of SME developers have created structural paralysis. The city must depoliticise housing, simplify regulation, reopen finance, diversify investment and strengthen cross‑sector collaboration to rebuild capacity and deliver the homes Londoners need.

Public libraries are under intense financial pressure, yet their value has never been clearer. This article explores the social, economic and health benefits libraries generate, the consequences when they close, and the practical steps councils can take to modernise services. Far from being a luxury, libraries are vital infrastructure that strengthen communities, boost literacy and support local resilience.

Data centres are rapidly becoming the backbone of the UK’s digital economy, yet most councils are unprepared for the scale of change ahead. As AI accelerates demand for power, land, and connectivity, local authorities face a choice: step forward and shape this new wave of infrastructure, or risk being left behind. Early movers will secure investment, influence development, and position their areas for long‑term digital growth.

Digital and AI‑enabled estates are reshaping how councils manage public assets. Property and asset leaders now play a strategic role, using live data, predictive insight and intelligent systems to improve governance, support the future workforce, and unlock commercial and community value. The shift isn’t about technology for its own sake; it’s about smarter stewardship and creating better outcomes for people and place.

Local authorities are increasingly constrained not by land or planning policy but by access to electrical capacity. Power consented brownfield sites offer councils a strategic route to unlock stalled development, strengthen local infrastructure and secure long term value. Councils that act early will shape their local economies, while those that delay risk being held back by energy limitations.

Refreshing Corporate Asset Management Strategies (CAMS) is now a leadership priority for local government. This article explores how councils can align estates with financial resilience, housing delivery, net‑zero targets and modern service models. Drawing on practical delivery experience, it sets out a three‑lens framework, the role of One Public Estate, and how Directors of Property and Place can turn buildings from cost centres into strategic enablers for communities.

Discover how the London Borough of Newham is turning its Growth Plan into reality with inclusive prosperity at its core. Learn how citizen-led research, strategic housing delivery, priority sectors like digital and green skills, and a live accountability dashboard are reshaping local economic development. A blueprint for councils seeking measurable, equitable growth and lasting community impact.

This blog explores the transition from Director of Place to Corporate Director in UK local government, examining the shift from technical expertise to strategic, whole‑council leadership. It outlines how aspiring leaders can prepare, build political acumen, strengthen system‑wide influence, and decide if corporate leadership is the right step. A practical guide for senior officers seeking broader impact.

Discover why 2026 is a turning point for housing leadership in UK local authorities. Learn how record temporary accommodation, Awaab’s Law, the Social Housing Regulation Act, Building Safety Levy, decarbonisation targets, and Renters’ Rights Act reforms will reshape housing services. Explore strategies to hire and retain outstanding leaders, build compliance culture, and deliver safe, sustainable homes amid unprecedented pressures.

In 2026, planning reform demands leadership, not maintenance. Councils need a Head of Planning who can deliver Local Plan adoption within the new 30-month timetable, ensure Development Management performance that builds trust, maintain credible enforcement, and lead a data-driven, improvement-focused culture. Recruiting for impact, not just filling a vacancy, will shape growth, protect communities, and secure public confidence.

A Head of Property in 2026 is a strategic hire. Ageing estates, rising maintenance backlogs, capital receipt dependence and growing audit scrutiny mean councils need leaders who blend commercial skill, corporate landlord expertise, political acumen and strong governance. Clear priorities, honest context and a competitive offer are essential to attract and retain the talent needed to protect financial resilience and modernise the estate.

Local authorities must rethink their role in a shifting, multipolar world. Drawing on Tim Marshall’s geopolitics, councils need global partnerships, strong economic development leadership, and long‑term strategies to attract investment, build resilience, and secure future prosperity. Understanding global trends and acting confidently is now essential for place‑based growth, helping communities thrive amid rapid global change.

English councils face rising demand, shrinking budgets, and complex challenges like climate resilience, child poverty, and health inequalities. The PLACE framework enables adaptive systems stewardship through subsidiarity, accountability, and partnership. Apply its 12 elements to devolve authority, embed mutual accountability, and build trust. Expect fewer duplications, faster learning, stronger legitimacy, and better outcomes.

Ready to step into your first Head of Property role in local government? Discover 10 essential lessons from our 90-minute roundtable with sector leaders. Learn how to build a strategic narrative, master stakeholder engagement, navigate political dynamics, embed sustainability, and develop commercial acumen. Packed with expert quotes, actionable insights, and data, this guide will help you secure the role and thrive from day one.

Discover the true financial scale of England’s care and support services. This blog explores the rising costs of adult social care (£34.5bn), children’s social services, SEND provision (£10.5bn+), and temporary accommodation (£2.8bn). With over £50bn spent annually, we unpack what’s driving these pressures, the implications for local government, and why urgent reform is needed to protect vulnerable communities and ensure sustainable public service delivery.

Local councils face a delicate balance between driving economic growth and maintaining fiscal prudence. With billions committed to regeneration and new institutions like the National Wealth Fund, opportunities abound. Yet Section 151 officers must navigate the Prudential Framework while enabling long-term investment. Strategic authorities and digital integration offer solutions, but capacity and governance challenges remain.

Awaab’s Law sets strict housing safety standards, but UK councils face major challenges in implementation. This article explores the cost implications, staffing and contractor shortages, and rising demand for temporary accommodation. Featuring real council case studies, it highlights the urgent need for strategic investment and collaboration to meet legal obligations and protect tenants.

Growth for growth’s sake isn’t enough. Councils must ask: What does success look like for our residents? By defining a local vision, investing in core services, and engaging communities meaningfully, local authorities can lead the way in shaping places that thrive economically and socially. Senior officers and elected Members can find inspiration in Localis’ research. For deeper insight, connect with Joe Fyans directly.

Discover the top property management systems for UK local government in 2025. This in-depth review explores leading platforms like Civica, Idox, and PaTMa, comparing features such as compliance tracking, GIS integration, usability, and value for money. With real-world case studies and sector insights, this guide helps Heads of Property make informed decisions to modernise estate management, improve compliance, and support strategic goals like Net Zero and regeneration.