Rochford District Council is leading transformation under Cllr Danielle Belton, championing member-led leadership, inclusive governance, and community empowerment. From protecting the Greenbelt and supporting local businesses to navigating Local Government Reorganisation with record-breaking consultation, Rochford offers a bold, resident-focused model. Discover how strategic clarity and local identity are shaping a resilient future for this Essex district.

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.”