Local council leaders are warning that parks and beauty spots are at risk from wildfires because of the heatwave.

Councils and other public bodies are being reminded that the deadline to apply for the first round of interest free loans for energy saving schemes is just two weeks away.

Council leaders have warned that low morale among social workers is putting the safety of vulnerable children at risk.

A target designed to speed up councils’ handling of planning applications has created ‘perverse incentives’ according to a committee of MPs.

Only half of GPs are able to refer patients with depression to exercise schemes five years after guidance recommended exercise as a treatment in mild to moderate cases.

Councils who are trying to support their local businesses through the recession are being urged to make the most of the part their own regulatory services can play.

Council leaders have published their own plans for a rebalancing of democracy in favour of voters.

Representatives of local authorities will join business leaders, members of community organisations and staff from economic development agencies from around the country today to look at how inspiration and leadership can help rural economies to fulfil their potential.

A new report says effective use of Information Technology has the potential to allow people to exercise real choice and control over schools, GPs, hospitals and other public services.

The Audit Commission is talking to unions about planned job cuts. It is proposing to cut its field force numbers by 100 with the planned redundancies taking place during this financial year.