Local Government

Local Business growth can be supported or damaged by the policies Local Authorities pursue and the decisions they take.

Local government’s role in areas like regeneration, planning, education and skills, regulation, transport, crime or the local environment make it a major player in the development of the local economy. Local Chambers of Commerce, unique in their ability to represent the local private sector, work closely with Local Authorities, to make the business case to business to councillors and officials.

The government has indicated that it wants to move in the direction of greater powers for Local Authorities. This will be in the form of stronger partnerships of local delivery organisations, simpler funding streams and more streamlined assessment arrangements. It is therefore particularly crucial that local government offers strong leadership, effective delivery and meaningful involvement of the private sector in decision-making. The 2007 British Chambers of Commerce 'Tale of the Cities' report demonstrates what can de done through highlighting the role that Local Chambers have played in working with Local Authorities to regenerate UK cities like Brimingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield.

The finance issue also a major concern. A number of new potential local charges on business are on the horizon, including Workplace Parking Levies, Business Rate Supplements and potential road pricing measures. Business already pays £22 billion in business rates in addition to numerous other taxes, including corporation tax, VAT and National Insurance contributions. Additional charges risk damaging the competitiveness of UK companies, who are having to compete in an increasingly global competitive market. Business needs to have a voice on these issues, both locally and nationally, to assess, scrutinise and fight against these proposals where they will damage the local economy.