NALC attends government briefing sessions

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC), along with the Local Government Association (LGA) and other local government bodies, attended briefing sessions with government officials to hear their plans and flag issues of concern and interest to the sector.

In the meeting, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) spoke on the new Levelling Up Parks Fund, £9m spread across 85 neighbourhoods most deprived of outdoor space in England. Some of these areas include local (parish and town) councils. Whilst local councils cannot apply directly. They confirmed that eligible councils are encouraged to work closely with communities and local councils.

Officials from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) set out information on changes over the next few years to the way landline telephones work. The Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) will replace Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by December 2025. The government will increase publicity over the next few months.

Many councils are concerned about litter from fast food takeaway outlets. There is updated guidance clarifying the power principal authorities have in England to set stricter litter rules for new hot food takeaways when considering planning applications. This includes rules they can enforce when new takeaways open, such as ensuring they install more bins and anti-litter signs around shops or have staff members pick up litter regularly. Failing to adhere to these rules could result in financial penalties.

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