Agenda item

Claire Hogan, Senior Adviser, introduced the item, updating members on recent LGA activity around community engagement on devolution and the LGA’s devolution support offer. She asked members for their reflections on work so far.

The following points were made:

·         Members highlighted that devolution deals needed to support practical propositions to illustrate the benefit to the public. This would encourage public engagement.

·         Members noted there had been a limited response to council events on devolution in some areas.

·         There was a request that the LGA refocused how it engaged councillors in the devolution dialogue, although it was acknowledged that council leaders could assist with keeping councillors informed about the debate.

·         Communication techniques were discussed and the benefit of using different forms of social media to get the message on devolution across.

·         There was a discussion about the benefits of the mayoral model and the asks areas made of government for deals.

Officers advised members that the LGA would continue to support councils with the negotiation and agreement of devolution deals, assisting with long-term strategic planning, governance arrangements and support for mayoral candidates (provided by the political group offices).

The Chair asked members to contact Claire Hogan directly with any queries.

Decision:

The City Regions Board:

1.    Noted the report.

Action:

1.    LGA officers to continue to develop the devolution support offer in line with members’ steer.