Devolved approaches to local governance: policy and practice in neighbourhood management

Recent policy initiatives focusing on local government modernisation and neighbourhood management seek to reinvigorate local democracy and ensure that government is more responsive to local needs. Such policies could mark profound changes in the way our communities are governed, but what are the practical implications? Drawing upon research findings of current practice and the authors' direct experience, this report presents an overview of the issues faced by public, private and voluntary organisations, community groups and residents engaged in neighbourhood renewal and management. The analysis suggests that more attention needs to be given to issues of organisational and cultural change, capacity building and the hidden costs of implementing these new agendas.