Cllr John Merry
We need fairer funding of local government, and we need it now
Cllr John Merry says that while the chancellor stressed the need for more efficiency in this week's Budget, he would highlight the importance of fixing what is, in Key Cities’ view, councils' broken funding model’.
Cities find their future
Cllr John Merry looks back at Key Cities’ successes and considers what he would like the network and local government to achieve during the next decade.
Tools for a long-lasting recovery
Cities need to be empowered to deliver a proper, long-lasting recovery, says Cllr John Merry – but he adds there is a growing concern about whether the cash to fund the necessary change will be available
Show us the money
The Government’s levelling up ambitions are welcome but will need substantial long-term funding if they truly are to succeed, says chair of Key Cities Cllr John Merry.
Instagram leads to investment in our cities
Urban leaders need to better understand their online brand, as cities with fewer mentions across social media and online news tend to attract less investment, says Cllr John Merry.
The high street is dead, long live the high street
Six Key Cities members received all or part of the Future High Streets funding they originally bid for. Cllr John Merry explains how high streets can become the beating hearts of communities once again.