Alun Davies, Cabinet Secretary for Local Government & Public Services
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
In November I joined local government leaders at the WLGA Autumn Seminar.
We all recognise the critical role local government plays and the shared ambition we have for local government to be empowered to maximise the impact it has in the lives of citizens.
At the event, I took the opportunity to invite local government to suggest additional powers or flexibilities which would aid them in their work providing services to our people and communities; and in making a difference for people across Wales.
I am aware of a number of suggestions and proposals, particularly emerging from the City Deal and Growth Deal processes, as well as some long standing areas of interest. I believe it would be helpful to draw together this thinking to inform future considerations and consequently, I have written to all local authority Leaders today, inviting them to let me have their suggestions and ideas. I also intend bringing this letter to the attention of all Welsh Members of Parliament.
I will be working closely with Ministerial colleagues to consider the proposals which come forward but I am clear that our objective must to be enable strong, empowered local government.