Local areas urged take the lead in economic recovery

The impact of a lockdown on a local area is inextricably linked to its economy, according to a new report.

The report by the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport (ADEPT), with support from EY, argues that local leaders must be empowered to make decisions on local economic support in their areas.

It warns local lockdowns reinforce existing economic challenges within areas and any interventions must empower local areas, be sector specific and recognise dependencies on other forms of local and national support plans.

The report also says consumer and business confidence is fragile.

It argues that council directors are ‘well positioned’ to act quickly, seize opportunities and form partnerships.

‘There is no question that local leadership supported with the right resources is essential to the national economic recovery,’ said the immediate past president and chair of ADEPT’s economic recovery and renewal taskforce, Darryl Eyers.

‘The economic impacts of Covid-19 are significant and with so many of our regions having entered Tier 3, and now the reintroduction of a national lockdown, could continue to be so for some time to come.

‘This report is an essential resource for local leaders battling to support their economies, businesses and communities. As well as an analysis of the five ‘grand challenges’, it provides examples of actions that authorities across the UK, Europe and the US have implemented as a practical response to the crisis.’

Marcus Richards, a director in EY’s strategy and transactions practice, added: ‘The local economic, financial and community impact of Covid-19 is significant and unprecedented. Ensuring that there is a forum where innovation, insight and lessons learnt can be shared is going to be key to empowering local leaders in supporting the resilience and recovery of local economies.’

The report – Resolute and Resilient – Safeguarding the economy during local lockdowns  – is available here.