Handforth in hindsight: The future of hyperlocal governance in England

Article

Hyperlocal governance has huge potential. It can give people a greater say in their areas, helping them determine and deliver what is needed in their neighbourhoods, and bring social benefits to communities as well.

In this report we set out what is needed to renew and expand hyperlocal governance across England.

We recognise the potential and merits of the existing parish council model but highlight that there are issues with it - some of which were illustrated by a viral video of a Handforth council meeting in 2021 that unfortunately played to the stereotypes of the worst of parish council meetings.

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