The onset of a new administration – of whatever colour – will present an opportunity for local government to make the case for a changed relationship. At the District Councils' Network, we've produced a prospectus that sets out to new ministers and officials how we believe we can work in partnership with them to transform our places and economies.

All too often centrally conceived policies can be suboptimal in delivery or lead to unintended consequences on the ground. But the chances of success are enhanced if we work collaboratively, with councils given devolved powers to enable national goals to be achieved at a local level.