Devolution deal for West Yorkshire signed into law

29 January 2021
Devolution deal for West Yorkshire signed into law
Local Government Minister Luke Hall has signed an Order bringing into law a historic devolution deal for West Yorkshire.
Marking a significant moment for local government in the region, as well as another major boost for the Northern Powerhouse, the deal will pave the way for the creation of a new mayor and Mayoral Combined Authority.

LGA Housing Advisers’ Programme applicants chosen

29 January 2021
LGA Housing Advisers’ Programme applicants chosen
The Local Government Association has announced the 17 successful applicants for its Housing Advisers Programme for this year.
The HAP is an innovative scheme to help councils overcome housing challenges in their local areas, address the impact of coronavirus on the housing crisis and meet the housing needs of local communities. The programme is designed to support councils by funding the provision of independent expertise for councils undertaking specific projects to tackle the effects of the housing crisis in their local communities.

World’s first hydrogen double deckers for Aberdeen

29 January 2021
World’s first hydrogen double deckers for Aberdeen
The world's first fleet of double decker hydrogen buses has officially been launched into service by Aberdeen City Council.
Run by First Bus - Scotland’s largest bus operator – in a project led by Aberdeen City Council, the hydrogen buses represent a major step forward in reducing climate change. The zero-emission fleet emits nothing more than water from its exhausts as the fuel is made from just wind and water.

‘Gross shortage’ of decent social homes in England

28 January 2021
‘Gross shortage’ of decent social homes in England
The government has released new figures on homelessness, which Shelter says highlights the fact that thousands are struggling to survive the pandemic while homeless.

Upgrades to Go Ultra Low Oxford EV chargers

28 January 2021
Upgrades to Go Ultra Low Oxford EV chargers
Upgrades have been made to the Go Ultra Low Oxford project, giving members of the public the ability to use the chargers for the first time.