Is economic inactivity now the UK's biggest growth challenge?
In this episode David and Mike unpack the demographic shifts reshaping local economies. From the Bank of England’s warning on economic inactivity to the ONS’s mid-year population estimates and the so-called fertility crisis, the data paints a complex picture of ageing populations, challenges of out-migration in places, and worryingly low rates of labour market participation. How might transport policy, spatial planning, and extending access to further education reverse economic decline and better support people into work?
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11:53
Political instability, organisational churn, and the rise of hyper-localism—how LED practitioners are adapting in uncertain times
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore the growing political instability reshaping local economic development and placemaking in the UK. With the Reform Party gaining ground, over 40% of English councils now in no overall control, and local government distracted by the looming reorganisation, what does this mean for forward planning, community cohesion, and officer-led decision making? From the Royal Geographical Society’s reflections to grassroots business networks stepping into the void, LEDC unpacks how practitioners are navigating uncertainty, rebuilding strategy from the ground up, and finding opportunity in hyper-localism.
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12:02
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12:02
After the ministerial shake-up at MHCLG: what’s next for Local Economic Development in the UK?
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike return from the 2025 summer break to unpack the major shake-up at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). With Angela Rayner’s resignation and a new ministerial team in place, they explore what these changes could mean for local economic development and placemaking in the UK. What impact will new appointments like Steve Reed and Miatta Fahnbulleh have on housing, planning, and devolution agendas? And how can local leaders and practitioners influence policy and delivery as the sector enters a critical phase of reform? Tune in for expert insights and practical reflections on the evolving landscape.Bonus Biscotti Briefing on this topic available for download here on the LEDC website: https://www.ledconfidential.co.uk/post/what-do-the-major-changes-at-mhclg-mean-for-uk-led-and-placemaking
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10:40
Summer reflections: blue sky thinking for place leaders
What inspires transformation when the policy treadmill slows? And how can science fiction, cinema, and Nokia guide your next move?
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11:01
Health meets place: the NHS 10-Year Plan and local economic development
Can NHS reform be a catalyst for local economic renewal? Or will institutional churn stall the promise of community health?
Podcast about local economic development and placemaking. Co-hosted by Mike Spicer of PolicyDepartment and David Marlow of Third Life Economics. Mike, David and guests address the divisive, often unspoken issues facing economic development professionals in 2020s Britain.
Website:
www.ledconfidential.co.uk
Portugal