In this episode of The Truth About Local Government, Councillor John Merry CBE shares how cities can lead the charge in meeting the UK’s target of 1.5 million new homes. From the transformation of Salford Quays to the role of Key Cities, John emphasises the need for public-private partnerships, planning certainty, and building communities not just homes. “We need to build the infrastructure… not just properties in an empty field.”

Cathy Palmer, Director of Regeneration Delivery at Walker Sime, joins the Truth About Local Government podcast to explore why some masterplans succeed while others fail. Drawing on her experience in both local government and consultancy, Cathy highlights the importance of early-stage alignment, strong governance, realistic funding, and community engagement. She shares lessons from projects like Birkenhead 2040 and Bolton, offering practical insights for regeneration leaders.

Section 114 notices are no longer rare events. As financial pressures mount across the local government sector from rising demand and...

In the latest episode of Truth About Local Government , I sat down with Owen Jenkins, Executive Director of Place at Surrey County...

In today’s competitive and fast-evolving local government landscape, the ability to craft and communicate a compelling story about a...