Government Policy 2026
07 Apr 2026
Simpler Recycling Rollout Starts
Clear new rules on how households sort their recycling and waste have come into force across England, aiming to end longstanding confusion and support more consistent, streamlined collections.
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30 Mar 2026
Devolution Bill Debates Focus On Scrutiny And Accountability
Peers have continued detailed discussions on the Government’s English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, with recent debates focusing on how new powers will work in practice, and who will hold...
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30 Mar 2026
£70m Announced To Boost Building Safety Workforce
The government has announced £70 million in funding to increase capacity in building safety professions, aiming to address workforce shortages and support the delivery of new housing.
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30 Mar 2026
Digital Inclusion Plan Reaches One Million People
More than one million people across the UK have been supported to get online through the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, according to a first-year progress update published by the...
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24 Mar 2026
The Rural Reality: Heating Oil Pressures Continue
Following our recent coverage of rising heating oil costs, the Rural Services Network has continued to hear directly from members about the real-world impact on rural households and communities. As...
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24 Mar 2026
Tougher Measures Unveiled To Tackle Waste Crime
The Government has announced a new Waste Crime Action Plan, setting out a tougher, “zero-tolerance” approach to illegal dumping across England. The plan includes stronger enforcement powers for the Environment...
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16 Mar 2026
New Planning Measures Aimed at Accelerating Homes and Infrastructure
The government has announced a package of regulatory changes aimed at speeding up the delivery of housing, transport and clean energy projects, while maintaining environmental protections. New Strategic Policy Statements...
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09 Mar 2026
Spring Forecast: Growth Promised, Rural Gap Persists
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, set out the Government’s Spring Forecast to Parliament last week, arguing that the Government’s economic plan is beginning to deliver results, with falling inflation, reduced borrowing...
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09 Mar 2026
SEND Reforms Overlook School Transport
New plans designed to help local authorities manage the rising cost of supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) leave significant questions unanswered, particularly around the growing cost...
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09 Mar 2026
Post Office Plans Still Miss Rural Realities, Says Plunkett UK
Plunkett UK has responded to the Government’s recent announcement on the future of the Post Office, acknowledging several positive commitments – but warning that the framework still lacks a full...
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