Reform UK's flagship Kent council votes to spend tens of thousands on political assistants, facing accusations of hypocrisy after promising to cut waste. Details on the budget crisis and controversial appointee inside.
A 67-year-old local worker in Stonebridge, Brent, says he no longer feels safe after a fatal shooting left a 55-year-old man dead and the killer on the loose. He now keeps a pick handle by his till.
Five London boroughs are among six councils given permission to raise council tax above 5% in 2026/27. Some have pledged not to, despite facing major budget gaps. Read the latest on the Fair Funding Review.
The elections watchdog has criticised the government's offer to postpone 63 council votes, warning it risks public confidence. Five councils have already requested delays.
Westminster City Council proposes a £90 weekly rent increase for 352 temporary accommodation households from February 2026 to tackle a £12.5m budget overspend. Over 90% of residents will be protected by housing benefit.
Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, and Hammersmith & Fulham councils hit by November cyber attack. Staff warned after hackers target individuals via Microsoft Teams. Supplier payments delayed.
A 70% surge in rural protests across China reveals a crisis of returning migrant workers and local government debt, sparking clashes over land and livelihoods. Explore the deepening social fissures.
Plans to reorganise local councils in England could push the next local elections back to 2026. Read the latest on the government's devolution agenda and its impact on voters.
Elections for councils serving millions in England could be postponed to 2027, sparking accusations of a political 'stitch-up'. Read the latest on the local government reorganisation delays.
Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster, Wandsworth, City of London and Hammersmith and Fulham can raise rates above 5% in 2026/27. Find out why and what it means for residents.
Residents of Saline Township, Michigan, are battling a massive data centre backed by tech tycoons, fearing soaring bills, pollution, and the destruction of their rural community. A classic David vs Goliath story unfolds.
Haringey Council's draft Local Plan suggests the Rowans Tenpin Bowl site is suitable for tall buildings and 190 new homes. The public consultation ends Friday, December 19. Have your say now.
Croydon Council is set for a £120m funding boost over three years after a historic government review. The new Fair Funding 2.0 model aims to better reflect local need, but the borough's massive debt remains a challenge. Read the full story.
Facing potential heavy losses in May's local elections, Keir Starmer plans a new King's Speech to reset his government's agenda. Critics see May as a pivotal moment for leadership challenges.
A new 'Fair Funding' formula reshapes council finances, boosting deprived areas. But with most councils still hiking tax, is the crisis over? Explore the winners, losers, and impact on your bill.
Manchester, Bradford and outer London boroughs gain spending power in a new three-year settlement, while affluent southern councils face cuts. Will it restore local services?
Beloved Finsbury Park bowling alley, Rowans Tenpin Bowl, could be demolished for flats under Haringey Council's new local plan. Public consultation ends December 19.
Croydon Council reveals how a £9m funding pot will tackle urgent transport issues, including dangerous Portland Road, new bus lanes, and cycling links. Discover the two-year plan.
Reform UK took control of 10 councils, including Lancashire. Seven months on, we examine the party's 'anti-woke' agenda, financial cuts, and a wave of complaints. Listen to the full report.
Brent Council has paid nearly £10,000 in compensation after a Local Government Ombudsman investigation found it failed to provide a disabled teenager with vital educational therapies for over a year.
Five sitting Labour councillors in Brent have joined the Green Party, criticising Labour's shift from socialist principles. The defections signal a 'Green surge' in London ahead of local elections.
Exclusive report reveals London councils' £555m reliance on consultants and outsourcing firms for basic services, raising democratic concerns. Read the full investigation.
A North London mother received £5,250 compensation after Brent Council's errors left her and her children without a home for over a year. Read the full Ombudsman report.
Greenwich Council is selling three underused car parks to raise funds for essential services, sparking backlash from local businesses and shoppers. Public auction set for December 11.
Discover 10 thoughtful gift ideas from UK small businesses this festive season. Support local entrepreneurs and find unique presents. Start your ethical shopping now!
Sam Foster, former Chair of Southwark's Housing Scrutiny Commission, has left Labour for the Green Party, citing asylum and housing policies. It's the second defection in a month.
Fiona Mulaisho quits Labour, alleging a 'toxic culture' and discriminatory remark about her ethnicity. She will now stand for the Liberal Democrats in Queen's Park. Read the full story.
A West London council has apologised and paid £250 to a domestic abuse victim after a watchdog found poor communication caused her 'frustration and uncertainty' over her housing situation.
Ministers postpone new mayoral votes in four English regions until 2028, triggering fierce accusations of 'dictatorial' behaviour from opposition parties. Read the full story.
From Birmingham to Sheffield, residents face harassment in a covert battle over flags. Discover the local identity disputes dividing communities and the authorities' struggle to respond.