Sarah Calkin

The Local Government Association is to cut more than 10% of its workforce as it seeks to modernise and close a growing funding gap. A consultation with staff was launched on Thursday and sets out proposals to radically reshape the organisation, bringing policy and service experts together into a new “impact” directorate, LGC understands. As of March 2025 the cross-party membership body employed 540 people. Under the proposed future operating model there will be a reduction of 62 roles.

The coming year promises to be another eventful one for local government, but there are questions over the government’s commitment to devolution, writes LGC editor Sarah Calkin. Happy New Year! And welcome back. I certainly hope readers have managed a rest over the festive period as 2026 seems set to begin with every bit as much drama for local government as last year ended with.

The former leader of Oxfordshire CC has died peacefully at his home, the council has confirmed. Ian Hudspeth (Con), led Oxfordshire from 2012 until 2021 when he unexpectedly lost his seat as the Conservatives lost control of the council. First elected to Oxfordshire in 2005, he was one of only three leaders of the county since the cabinet system was adopted in 2021. He also served as a district councillor on West Oxfordshire DC from 2002 to 2012 and as a member of Bladon Parish Council.