Browne Jacobson Public Sector Matters

The UK’s housebuilding strategy is at a crossroads. While plans for up to 12 new towns are ambitious, mid-sized cities like Nottingham, Leeds, Sheffield and Bristol already have the infrastructure, amenities and workforce to support large-scale housing growth, albeit some of this requires upgrading. In this article for The Times, our partner Ben Standing explores why expanding and investing in these cities rather than starting from scratch could be a more effective and cost-efficient solution. Unlocking surrounding green-belt land could boost affordable housing, drive economic growth and create jobs - all without the extensive infrastructure demands of new towns. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4bQWUIm #HousingCrisis #UrbanDevelopment #AffordableHousing #CityGrowth

The Department for Education has released updated guidance on Alternative Provision (AP), replacing the 2013 version. The new guidelines clarify the legal duties of local authorities to provide suitable education for children unable to attend mainstream schools due to exclusion, illness, or other reasons. It also highlights funding mechanisms and the role of in-school support to prevent exclusion. Read our full article for a breakdown of the key changes and how schools and local authorities can collaborate more effectively. https://bit.ly/3DOS95c #AlternativeProvision #EducationPolicy #SEN #SchoolSupport

Read our comments on the government’s introduction of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to Parliament, highlighting the importance of a more efficient planning system in driving economic growth. While the Bill takes a bold approach, structural challenges remain, especially in balancing housing delivery, engaging communities, and addressing critical skills shortages in construction and planning. Ben Standing, Partner in planning and environment at Browne Jacobson, emphasises the need for government to lead a strategy that creates a positive shift in public perception to ensure development is seen as a force for good. Read more: https://bit.ly/3FoySrP #PlanningReform #Infrastructure #HousingDevelopment

With the UK’s devolution agenda gaining momentum, local authorities must adapt to new governance structures and opportunities. This insightful guide from Local Government Lawyer explores key challenges, legal considerations, and practical steps for councils embracing devolved powers. - What does devolution mean for your local authority? - How can councils navigate governance complexities? - What legal frameworks should be considered? Read the full article: https://bit.ly/43ygmqZ #LocalGovernment #Devolution #Governance

Sarah Erwin-Jones has provided an in-depth analysis on how the proposed UK limitation period reforms could impact sports organisations for LawInSport. Sarah provides subscribers with: * Overview of the proposed removal of the three-year time limitation for childhood sexual abuse claims. * Examination of how these changes could affect sports clubs and bodies, especially in light of increasing safeguarding and sexual abuse claims. * Insight into the legal framework of vicarious liability and practical steps sports organisations can take to prepare. Read the article on LawInSport to ensure your organisation is prepared: https://bit.ly/4hVVoa1 #SportsLaw #ChildProtection #Safeguardinging

The February edition of our Public Matters newsletter is now available. This edition covers: * Risk management in local government report * Practical guide to the English Devolution Whitepaper * Procurement Act coming into force You can also find insights on the Awaab’s Law set to take effect from October 2025, compulsory purchase order reforms, and the latest employment law updates. Read more here: https://bit.ly/41A2X08 #PublicSector #LocalGovernment #EmploymentLaw

The government has committed to implementing all 58 recommendations from the Grenfell Inquiry, reinforcing the need for a central repository to track public inquiry reforms and enhance accountability. With challenges in large institutions implementing high volumes of recommendations, our Head of Health & Life Sciences, Gerard Hanratty, explores how AI, leadership frameworks, and national oversight can drive meaningful change. Read more here: https://bit.ly/41fs7Ql #PublicInquiry #Accountability #GrenfellResponse

Anja Beriro (she/her) shares insights on the Procurement Act 2023, which came into force this week, with Public Finance. This article provides practical advice on the steps public authorities must take, emphasising the importance of effective contract management and setting realistic KPIs. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4ibF5Wf #ProcurementAct2023 #PublicSector #ContractManagement

As the government initiates pilot projects for locally-led inquiries into child grooming gangs, Stephanie McGarry, shares her expert insights on how councils can prepare for these critical investigations. Published on LocalGov, this article helps councils understand the comprehensive measures councils can take to gear up for these significant inquiries, with a roadmap for proactive preparation and impactful action. Read the full article on the LocalGov website: https://bit.ly/3Dj8rTH #ChildProtection #LocalGovernment

We have updated our practical guide to the English Devolution Whitepaper following the recent announcements surrounding the Devolution Priority Programme, and the simultaneous letters to all two tier authorities about local government reorganisation. The Devolution Priority Programme sets ambitious timelines for early adopters, with a legislative framework soon to support compulsory measures for broader implementation. Key points to note: * Fast-track implementation: Selected areas are being expedited to establish Combined Authorities (CAs) and Combined County Authorities (CCAs) by early 2026. * Election timelines: Mayoral and shadow unitary authority elections are scheduled for May 2026, with new unitaries operational by April 2027. * Proposal deadlines: Other two-tier areas must submit proposals for unitary councils by 28 November 2025, with implementation expected by April 2028. Read our updated guide: https://bit.ly/4kceSIW #EnglishDevolution #LocalGovernment #PublicSectorInnovation