Project summary
Previous changes in local government decision making structures through the 2000 Act, and the new leadership options in the local government white paper have a common feature of strengthening and streamlining leadership. In a situation of multi-party politics or a minority administration the increased role of the leader throws up several issues about how to manage the political balance. There are also potential or perceived tensions between the role of the executive and new community leadership roles for ward members.
This aim of this piece of action research will be to look at ways that institutional structures can be bolstered to provide sufficient checks and balances on stronger leadership powers. It will look at how to maximise the benefits of stronger executive powers and stronger sub-local leadership. This will include the potential for expanded overview and scrutiny.
Project investigator
Publications
This project will report in autumn 2008.