The government's National Scheme of Delegation took effect on 31 October 2026, changing how planning decisions are made by local planning authorities (LPAs).

This insight explains why some employees who are TUPE-transferred from a public sector employer to a private provider will retain their right to enhanced unreduced pension terms, and how those rights will continue to apply on further TUPE transfers.

Not even 24 hours after publishing the Autumn Budget and the Fiscal Devolution Roadmap, Government provided a significant update on its review of the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programme.

Chancellor John Healey’s 2026 Autumn Budget and the Fiscal Devolution Roadmap puts local and regional government at the heart of Government’s plans for growth.

This insight explains when employers should consider ill-health early retirement before an ill-health capability dismissal, how to make a compliant referral and how Capsticks can support the process.

In direct engagement scenarios, employers now need to check the right to work of not only employees, but also workers and independent contractors.

Government’s decision in September 2026 to pause and review much of the LGR programme has not removed the prospect of judicial review. Indeed, it has created a difficult legal and practical position for councils.

In a statement to Parliament on 7 September 2026, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government announced that Government will review the LGR programme after receiving updated legal advice.

On 18 August 2026, the Prime Minister announced his support for West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to take public control of the local bus network in West Midlands.

On 21 July 2026, the High Court handed down its first judgment addressing the principles in applications for early specific disclosure under the Procurement Act 2023.

Andy Burnham’s first week as Prime Minister provided an early indication of how his Government intends to work with local government.

On 16 July 2026, ministers confirmed plans to streamline two-tier councils in a further 14 areas. Government has advised that the reforms will see 134 councils streamlined into 38 unitary councils.