LGR Network – supported by SLC
November 2026 update
The Government has confirmed that Local Government Reorganisation, devolution and place transformation remains part of its wider programme of devolution and public service reform, whilst continuing to review the most effective arrangements across a number of areas. Recent announcements provide greater certainty for some authorities, while many councils remain in a period of planning, reflection and option appraisal. Further decisions are expected during early 2027.
Against this backdrop, the need for shared learning, peer support and practical discussion has never been greater.
The SLC LGR Network brings together local authority leaders, officers and portfolio holders to explore emerging issues, share experiences and consider how active wellbeing, sport, leisure and culture can be positioned within future local government and devolution arrangements.
The Network will continue to provide a confidential forum for discussion, helping participants understand national developments whilst learning from colleagues facing similar challenges across the country.
The next LGR Network session will take place from 10.00am to 12.00pm:
19 November 2026 – Register your place here
We will develop the agenda nearer the time and subject to any further announcements from government. This will be shared with participants ahead of the session. We reserve the right to extend the number of sessions subject to demand.
About the LGR Network
The LGR Network, supported by New Local, is a virtual, facilitated roundtable for local authority officers, senior leaders and portfolio holders involved in Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), devolution, active wellbeing, leisure, culture and wider place-based transformation.
The pace and direction of Local Government Reorganisation, devolution and place transformation may vary between areas, but every authority faces important questions around service integration, governance, commissioning, estates, partnerships and community outcomes. The Network provides a confidential forum through which participants can share experiences, test thinking, explore emerging practice and develop informed responses to evolving policy and local circumstances.
We intend to convene the Network regularly, with future sessions shaped by the needs and priorities of members. SLC will continue to coordinate and liaise with sector partners and organisations including CLOA, the LGA and Sport England to ensure discussions reflect the latest developments and emerging good practice.
The Network operates in accordance with a Terms of Reference that sets out its purpose, principles and member expectations.
The LGR Network’s Terms of Reference
What to expect from the network
The Network provides a trusted environment for open discussion, peer support and shared learning during a period of significant organisational change.
Sessions typically include:
- Updates on national policy developments relating to LGR, devolution and public service reform
- Peer discussion on emerging opportunities, challenges and lessons learned
- Practical case studies from councils progressing through organisational change
- Exploration of service integration, governance, commissioning and partnership approaches
- Discussion of the role of active wellbeing, leisure, culture and community services within future arrangements
- Opportunities to test ideas and learn from authorities at different stages of their journey
- Facilitated discussion operating under Chatham House Rules.
Agendas will continue to evolve in response to government announcements, member priorities and the emerging challenges facing local authorities.
Key themes for 2026/27
The Network’s forthcoming sessions are likely to explore:
- Government review outcomes and implications for councils
- Aligning active wellbeing services with devolution and public service reform
- Service integration and future operating models
- Governance, commissioning and partnership arrangements
- Asset, estate and investment planning
- Community power, prevention and neighbourhood delivery
- Building an evidence base to influence future organisational decisions.
SLC’s experience in support councils through change
SLC is a trusted strategic advisor to local government and the wider public sector, supporting the integration of active wellbeing within new unitary authorities and their localities.
With over 17 years’ experience facilitating sector engagement, SLC has delivered 50+ Think Tanks and continues to support councils through LGR with expertise in strategy, service models, governance, and estate planning.
Our recent LGR Think Tank with North Yorkshire Council presenting a case study, was attended by 20 councils and very well received.
SLC has been exploring emerging challenges and opportunities, identifying practical approaches, and sharing insight across the sector through ongoing thought leadership.
Learn about SLC’s experience in supporting councils through change
Benefits of Joining the LGR Network
By participating, you will:
- Connect with a trusted peer network of council officers and portfolio holders
- Share challenges, learning, and practical solutions
- Gain early access to emerging best practice and sector insights
- Help shape a collaborative support network for LGR
- Build valuable connections with peers navigating similar change programmes.
All sessions provide a confidential and safe space for open discussion, with no recordings. Summary insights are shared following each meeting.
New Local
New Local is an independent think tank and network with a mission to transform public services and unlock community power.
Community power is central to New Local’s approach, placing people and communities at the heart of decision-making and service design.
This focus is particularly relevant in the context of Local Government Reorganisation, where councils have an opportunity to rethink how services are designed, delivered and shaped around the needs of communities.
New Local’s research, networks and practical work with councils provides members with access to a wider network of local authorities, cutting-edge research, thought leadership and practical learning. This can help shape successful, community-focused approaches to Local Government Reorganisation.
Booking details
Places are limited to 30 participants to ensure a high-quality discussion (maximum two delegates per authority, subject to availability). Priority is given to achieving a balanced mix of authorities and geographies.
19 November 2026 – Register your place here
Following registration, you will receive a Teams link. If you have any queries, please contact us at info@slc.uk.com or call 01444 459927.
Want to join the network but can’t attend the session? No problem – contact us to receive future session invites.
