The redesign of local government suggested in a government statement, the Sub National Review of Economic Development, takes on board a number of principles set out by the New Local Government Network (NLGN), the think-tank has asserted.

NLGN director Chris Leslie welcomed the government proposals in the review, which he said granted local government partnerships significant devolved decision-making powers.

"The delegation of funds down from the RDAs to councils - for instance the billions devolved to councils in pre-19 skills - is a welcome shift in the balance of power from central to local government," Mr Leslie observed.

He added that regional development agencies, given broader responsibilities but subject to more stringent evaluation, would be able to provide a mast of leadership for their region.

In recent planning news this week, NLGN responded to government proposals on waste stating that waste charge plans should be determined at a local level.

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