Welsh Government and local councils ink strategic partnership agreement

The 23-page agreement pledges joint working and shared commitment to tackling challenges such as economic uncertainty and public finances.  

According to the WLGA and the Welsh Government, it “creates a framework for national and local government to work more effectively together, cutting unnecessary bureaucracy while respecting each other's democratic roles”. 

It is also intended to address practical concerns including funding arrangements, with commitments to early engagement on budget processes and multi-year financial settlements where possible. 

The Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: "This agreement represents a crucial milestone in our collective commitment to putting people first.  

“People across Wales will benefit from stronger public services as the Welsh Government and local councils forge a new strategic partnership agreement based on trust and collaboration.”

Cllr Andrew Morgan, Leader of the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA), said: “Communities in every part of Wales have benefited from the longstanding constructive relationship between councils and the Welsh Government. In formalising that fruitful partnership, this agreement will allow us to capitalise even more on the opportunities offered by our close collaboration.”