About NLGN

Established as a network of key opinion formers eager to discuss new ideas across the local government sector, NLGN is a dynamic and independent think tank committed to promoting the decentralisation of power, public service reform, enhancing local governance and empowering communities. Through expert research and our diverse networks we seek to influence the political and policy agenda.

NLGN was founded in 1996 by a group of senior local government figures whose aim was to make local government more relevant and credible to local people. We campaign for a more devolved constitutional settlement in the UK, drive forward the localism agenda and press for further decentralisation of power from Whitehall.

Through our independent research, events and advocacy we work with central and local government partners, the business and voluntary sectors and the wider policy community to provoke debate and discussion about the future of central-local relations. Our Innovation Network brings together leading innovative local authorities to push forward the localism debate and our network of Corporate Partners ensures that we are at the forefront of emerging policy developments within the private sector. Our engagement with a diverse range of parties ensures that we remain plugged in to existing and emerging political debates.

NLGN also hosts the Mayoral Forum of directly elected Mayors in England and our MAA Forum brings together clusters of Multi-Area Agreements, ensuring that we are at the forefront of developing new leadership and governance models within local government.