When under considerable financial strain, it's tempting to become focused on local problems. Within local government there has been an ongoing commentary regarding the need to input more resources into the social care arena and it was pleasing to see the Government respond.

In the lead up to the Budget announcement it was good to see the District and County Councils' Networks working closely together to respond to the business rate retention and New Home Bonus proposals. However, we are also continually being challenged to facilitate and enable growth in our communities.