Feeding the future: rethinking local economies through the foundational lens
In this episode, David and Mike are joined by Professor Kevin Morgan to explore the foundational economy—what it is, why it matters, and how it’s reshaping local economic development. They ask: how can food systems, especially public sector food provisioning, become a catalyst for community wealth and well-being? And what can the Welsh experience teach us about embedding foundational principles into policy and practice? From school meals to multi-level governance, this conversation challenges conventional growth models and offers a fresh take on place-based strategy.
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46:56
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46:56
Water and place: threat, opportunity or both?
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore the economic implications of flooding and water scarcity. They ask: are water-related risks a barrier to growth or a strategic opportunity for innovation and regeneration? From smart water management and wetland restoration to the blue green economy and new demands from the infrastructure powering AI, they unpack how water intersects with local economic development and placemaking.
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9:50
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9:50
Spending Review 2025: A turning point for local economic development?
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the 2025 Spending Review and ask: is this the moment local economic development and placemaking finally get the long-term backing they need? And will Integrated Settlements, Green Book reforms and 10-year capital deals really change the game for Mayoral Combined Authorities and their partners? They explore what SR25 means for funding stability, local autonomy, and the future of hyper local regeneration—and what it will take to turn ambition into delivery.
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26:22
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26:22
Joining the dots: universities, policy, and place-based impact with Sarah Chaytor
In this episode, David and Mike speak with Sarah Chaytor about the University Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) in the UK and the evolving role of universities in shaping public policy. They ask: how can academic expertise be better integrated into local and national policymaking? And what does it take for universities to move from transactional relationships to long-term civic partnerships that support place-based development?
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33:22
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33:22
What does the rise of the Reform Party mean for economic development and placemaking in the UK?
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike examine theimplications of the Reform Party’s rise to local power in England following the May 2025 local government elections. With new Reform Mayors and councils now in place, they explore what this means for local economic development, public service delivery, and the future of place leadership. They discuss the challenges facing officers in these authorities. Will the realities of office reshape Reform’s agenda or deepen the divide between national and local priorities?
Podcast about local economic development and placemaking. Co-hosted by Mike Spicer of PolicyDepartment and David Marlow of Third Life Economics. Mike, David and guests address the divisive, often unspoken issues facing economic development professionals in 2020s Britain.
Website:
www.ledconfidential.co.uk
UK