This week, Group Leader Cllr Shazna Muzammil and Cllr Chris Wardle attended the LGA Annual Conference in Harrogate.
The LGA Conference is a cross party event, where Councillors and local government officials can attend workshops, talks, networking events and exhibitions on a range of topics and issues within the sector.
Cllr Muzammil and Wardle prioritised participating in sessions focused on key issues affecting Milton Keynes residents, such as growth, affordable housing, council finances, devolution, public transport, and support for young people and families.
Cllr Muzammil said "It was an honour to attend this year's LGA Conference privilege to attend this year's LGA Conference with Cllr Chris Wardle. The experience was invaluable, filled with insightful discussions and opportunities to connect with fellow councillors from across the country and various political backgrounds. We shared best practices and learned from each other's experiences, reinforcing our commitment to serve our communities more effectively"
Key takeaways from some of the sessions Cllr Muzammil and Cllr Wardle attended:
· Conservative Group Meeting:
Daily meetings allowed us to align strategies and connect with other council leaders.
· Delivering Inclusive Growth:
Discussed councils’ role in driving economic growth and the importance of devolution, especially important with growth and new town plans for Milton Keynes.
· SEND Sustainability:
Addressed the ongoing challenges in meeting the educational needs of children with SEND and managing projected spending increases.
· Tackling Health Inequalities:
Explored strategies to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes across local communities.
· Temporary Accommodation Challenges:
Discussed approaches to manage the rising numbers of households in temporary accommodation and needed policy changes.
· Devolution for Growth and Public Services:
Covered the benefits and challenges of mayoral combined authorities and implications of the "Take Back Control" bill.
· Planning for Housing Needs:
Focused on current housing challenges, including affordable homes and right-to-buy policies.
· Improving Bus Services:
Emphasised the need for reliable and accessible public transport, especially in rural areas.
· Supporting Children and Young Families:
Looked at how councils can better support young people, with a focus on the Government’s Children’s Wellbeing Bill.
· Local Government Finance :
Discussed the future of local government finance, including the need for reform to help local authorities tackle the rising costs and demand in areas such as Children's social care.
