The Welsh Assembly Government began consultation on new structures for delivering the Communities First programme, with a greater focus on evidencing the impact of locally funded activities. There would be more consistent governance and financial accountability across the programme, with 'clear and consistent' demarcation of roles and responsibilities.
Source: Communities First: The Future, Welsh Assembly Government
Links: Consultation document | WAG press release | BBC report
Notes: The Communities First programme was launched in 2001 to involve local people in the work of regenerating the most deprived communities in Wales.
Date: 2011-Jul
A report said that people living in rural parts of Wales faced up to 20 per cent higher living costs than in urban areas, the biggest part of which went on transport. Impractical public transport services meant that car dependency was more pronounced in rural areas, and many households felt that they had no choice but to use a car for getting to work, school, shops, and other services – with a disproportionate impact on those on lower incomes.
Source: Making Sustainable Transport Easier for Rural Communities, Sustrans Cymru
Links: Report | Sustrans press release
Date: 2011-Jun
The interim report was published of an independent review into how local government in Wales might perform better if it were to review and realign the commissioning and delivery of some of its functions. It outlined 10 principles that should underpin and inform the thinking of ministers and local government on the issue of collaboration.
Source: Joe Simpson, Local, Regional, National: What Services Are Best Delivered Where?, Welsh Assembly Government
Links: Report | WLGA press release
Date: 2011-Mar
