In this article which first appeared in the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) in June 2021, Wates’ Public Sector Director Steve Beechey reflects on the findings of a Wates-led research project where all 339 Local Authorities in England were asked about the impact of COVID-19.
The article highlights the wide disparities in experience, with London boroughs reporting relatively good finances in comparison with councils in the Midlands and North-West.
Steve notes that councils are having tackle long-term issues such as achieving net zero, supporting local supply chains and increasing apprenticeships, all priorities which are shared with organisations such as Wates. Deeper collaboration could help to address shared priorities together.
A new way of working is something at the top of any organisation’s agenda and I see a real opportunity for much greater collaboration based on helping councils recover from COVID and meet big long-term challenges.”
Steve Beechey
Group Public Sector Director
