You are here
The challenges of remaking the geo-constitution in England
The Local Goverance Research Centre (LGRC)'s Inaugural Annual Lecture 'The challenges of remaking the geo-constitution in England: Understanding the history, geography and politics of (de)centralisation, devolution and localism' will be delivered by Professor Jane Wills (University of Exeter).
Professor Jane Wills (University of Exeter) will explore the shifting geography of English statecraft over the last 500 years, focusing on the challenges encountered in recent efforts to decentralise, devolve and localise political decision making. The concept of the geo-constitution will b eused to expose the importance of having the institutional and social infrastructure required to underpin the localisation of political power. Building on the work already published in Locating Localism: Statecraft, Citizenship and Democracy (2016, Policy Press), the lecture will include new research conducted to explore the process and impact of asset transfer to a number of Cornish town councils. This research exposes the importance of mundane facilities such as parks and roundabouts to the public, and the role of these assets in (re)empowering a rescaled local government.
The lecture will be followed by responses from two prestigious speakers: Sarah Longlands (Director, IPPR North) and Mark Sandford (House of Commons Library). The event will be an opportunity to critically reflect on the politics and practice of localism, the prospects and challenges of devolution and the future of local government.
The evening will begin with a reception at 17:30 with the lecture starting at 18:00. After the talk and discussion, there will be a drinks and canapes reception in the Hugh Aston Atrium.
If you would like to attend please register by email by clicking the register button above. You may also fill out a booking form on De Monfort University's website to highlight any dietary or access requirements you may have.
Spaces are limited so please register in advance.