News

Cllr Louise Gittins has today announced her intention to stand down as Chair of the Local Government Association.

“Local government is at its strongest when we speak with one voice to national government on the many challenges facing our sector right now, including the acute pressures that councils face along with the ever-increasing demand for their services that so many people rely upon every day.

Dennis Skinner will retire on 31 December 2025 after 22 years of exceptional leadership within the IDeA and LGA.

Andrea Newman, currently Strategic Director of Communications and Engagement at Surrey County Council, has been appointed as our Director of Communications and Engagement, joining the extended Strategic Leadership Team.

Helen Jenkins, currently the LGA’s Joint Head of Leadership and Interim Head of Improvement Coordination and Strategy, will join the Strategic Leadership Team as Assistant Chief Executive. 

“We are delighted that the Government has acted on our call for a relationship reset and a new way of working with local government."

Alastair Campbell, currently Interim Director of Communications and Engagement at Southwark Council, has been appointed as Interim Director of Communications and will join the LGA from 2 September for six months.

Sally Burlington, Director of Policy and Deputy Chief Executive, will leave the Local Government Association (LGA) later this year.

The legislative agenda set out today also includes some encouraging signs that the new Government recognises that, with the right powers and flexibilities, councils are critical to help it deliver its missions.

The LGA will hold its Annual Conference and Exhibition at the Harrogate Convention Centre between October 22-24, 2024.