Local Growth Funding Framework Research Commission

The Local Government Association (LGA) seeks research to develop a practical, evidence-based blueprint for future local growth funding in England. The research will assess current local growth funding arrangements, test LGA principles for future funding design, and analyze how funding works across different governance models including Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs), County Combined Authorities (CCAs), and non-devolved areas. The work will examine place-based investment initiatives such as the National Wealth Fund and provide a small number of options for a future funding framework with detailed analysis of advantages, disadvantages, and implementation considerations for each approach. The final report should include: an assessment of strengths and weaknesses in the current funding landscape; testing of LGA design principles; analysis across governance models; consideration of relevant institutions and initiatives; and actionable recommendations for a future framework. Recommendations must be practical, deliverable, and capable of informing government discussions on growth, devolution, and local government reform, as well as influencing spending review priorities. The research will provide a robust evidence base for the LGA's policy development and engagement with government, and be usable across all LGA growth-related work.