20 Oct 2026
What do rural communities want from their councils and local areas by 2040?
A new national conversation from the Local Government Association (LGA) is inviting residents and organisations across England to share their views.
Launched this week, Your Place, Your Future is open for four weeks and forms part of the LGA’s LG2040 programme, exploring the future of local government.
The programme’s first phase brought together councils, partners and experts to consider the forces shaping local places over the next 15 years. This next phase asks communities about their priorities, expectations and ideas for change.
Bringing Rural Experiences Into The Conversation
For rural communities, this is an opportunity to highlight what matters locally: access to services, reliable transport, affordable housing, digital connectivity and the support needed to help community organisations thrive.
It is also a chance to share the strengths of rural places, including local knowledge, community networks and initiatives that deserve greater recognition and support.
The RSN encourages members to take part and share the opportunity through their networks, helping rural experiences inform discussions about the future of local government.
How To Take Part
The online conversation takes around 10–15 minutes and can be accessed on a phone. Participants can contribute ideas, read other contributions and support those they agree with.
It explores three broad themes:
- What people should expect from councils and the role of communities.
- Community strengths and the support they need.
- What builds trust in local decisions.
Anyone aged 18 or over living in England can participate, including people responding on behalf of an organisation or community group.
Findings will be published in early 2027 and inform the LGA’s work with councils and government.
