It is hoped that having shared goals in cities, towns and rural areas, delivered through strong local leadership and effective support from Whitehall will minimise bureaucracy and maximise delivery.

This will achieve, greater efficiencies for local authorities and their partners giving them the freedom to work in a ‘joined up’ way to meet the challenges that localities face, in dealing with crime and anti-social behaviour, adverse public health trends, and the long-term econo mic and social well-being of our communities