Details

The government’s plan for simplifying the funding landscape for local authorities setsset out our ambition for increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of the current funding system. This publication follows the commitment within the landmark Levelling Up White Paper, to deliver a more transparent, simple, and accountable approach to funding.

By reducing administrative burdens, this plan will support local authorities to maximise their return on spending, generating the best outcomes for communities.

The plan detailsdetailed three3 main phases for change:

1. Immediate simplification of existing funds and communication. This includes a new ‘Simplification Pathfinder Pilot’ to test the streamlined delivery of capital funding in a small group of local authorities. We are also amending our project adjustment request process for the Levelling Up Fund, Town Deals and Future High Streets Fund, giving local authorities more flexibility to change projects.

2. A new ‘Funding Simplification Doctrine’ requiring departments to strive for a simpler and more streamlined way of delivering funding to local authorities, including considering allocative distribution approaches.

3. Reforms to be implemented at the next Spending Review, including multi-year, single departmental-style funding settlements for the trailblazer Mayoral Combined Authorities and better join up across interconnected policy areas and investment programmes.

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