This paper, prepared for the English Regions Network, by Regeneris Consulting, presents proposals for extending and strengthening the role of regional assemblies. It will be presented as a contribution to the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review’s sub-national review of economic development and regeneration early next year.The paper says that regional assemblies have proved their worth in making regional development agencies accountable for the decisions they make, the way they spend their money and the results they achieve. It argues that regional assemblies should be given the power to scrutinise a wide range of public bodies. This role could be extended to embrace other non-departmental public bodies including learning and skills councils.
LOCAL AUTHORITIES URGED TO GUARANTEE SUPPORT TO SHOPMOBILITY SCHEMES
Local authorities are being urged to promote Shopmobility schemes when town centres are redeveloped and to support schemes where they exist. The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee has issued a policy statement aimed at local councils and detailing the case for Shopmobility.
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MORE SCHOOLS TO BENEFIT FROM CREATIVE PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAMME
The Government is claiming that the success of its Creative Partnerships Programme has shown that creativity is a key element in teaching. The 150 million pound programme has linked up 4,500 creative practitioners to 330,000 young people in more than 1500 schools in 36 different parts of the country to promote new ways of working and problem solving.
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