LGR Network – supported by SLC
This new SLC network, supported by New Local, will bring together council officers and portfolio holders to explore how councils can successfully navigate LGR. Ensuring that sport, leisure, culture, and active wellbeing remain central to the priorities of future unitary authorities.
The inaugural online LGR Network meeting will take place on Tuesday 15 September 2026, 10.00am–12.00pm.
About the LGR Network
The LGR Network is a virtual, facilitated round table designed for council officers and portfolio holders leading or supporting sport, leisure, cultural services, active wellbeing, and wider place-based transformation programmes. Designed for those involved in, or preparing for LGR.
We intend to convene the network monthly for an initial three-month period, with future sessions shaped by members’ needs. These may include additional in-person or sub-regional sessions aligned to emerging shadow authorities. Attendance is flexible, whether regular or ad hoc.
SLC will also be coordinating and liaising with other forums such as CLOA, the LGA and Sport England.
The Network will operate in accordance with a Terms of Reference that sets out its purpose, principles and member expectations.
The LGR Network’s Terms of Reference
SLC’s experience in LGR
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 LGR
What to expect at the inaugural LGR Network meeting
The session will be facilitated by SLC’s Kate Mulrey, Dom Hudson and Duncan Wood-Allum, structured as an interactive, peer-led discussion. It will focus on understanding where councils are in their LGR journey and responding to the priorities of the group.
Discussion is likely to include:
- Implications of LGR for sport, leisure, culture, and active wellbeing
- Early challenges and opportunities from councils undergoing reorganisation
- Insights from SLC’s sector engagement and Think Tanks
- Approaches to governance, delivery models, and partnerships
- Open peer discussion operating under Chatham House rules
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 will provide a confidential and safe space for open discussion, with no recordings. Summary insights will be 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 will be given to achieving a balanced mix of authorities and geographies.
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 first session? No problem – contact us to receive future session invites.
