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.

Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, shares bold insights on local power, SEND reform, and regeneration in The Truth About Local Government podcast. She champions grassroots democracy, town centre housing, and financial discipline amid a £180m SEND deficit. Earl’s leadership focuses on restoring trust, delivering value for residents, and creating inclusive communities through governance reform and strategic investment.

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.

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.

Warwickshire County Council has quietly delivered one of the UK’s most successful local rail transformations, five new stations, one million journeys a year, and a strategic role in shaping regional services. From bold vision to technical delivery, their story is a blueprint for councils nationwide. As Mark Ryder puts it: “Success breeds success. If you can take that into new organisations, you unlock even greater potential.”

The United Kingdom stands at a pivotal moment in its planning and housing history. With housing affordability deteriorating,...

One of the most persistent and often overlooked challenges in local economic development is the assumption that national strategies can...

In the latest episode of The Truth About Local Government , I had the pleasure of speaking with Joe Fyans, Head of Research at Localis,...

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