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.
-------- Â
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?
-------- Â
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?
-------- Â
12:43
What do the May 2025 local election results mean for English devolution?
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike unpack the economic development and placemaking implications of the May 2025 local government elections in England. These saw the Reform Party gain two Combined Authority Mayors and control of several councils. They explore what this shift means for local growth, devolution, and regional collaboration. What does the future hold for the cohesion of pan-regional partnerships in northern England or the Oxford–Cambridge corridor?
-------- Â
10:59
Power cuts and cyber attacks - economic development in the age of perma-crisis
In this Espresso Shot episode, David and Mike explore how local leadership teams can build resilience into economic development and place-making strategies in an age of perma- crisis. Reflecting on recent power outages and cyber attacks, extreme weather and infrastructure shocks, they discuss how places can prepare for the unexpected. Drawing on lessons from recent crises and long-term planning approaches, they examine the trade-offs between efficiency and resilience—and what it means for the future of local growth.
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