Data and transparency for combined authorities: briefing paper
Think tank: City-REDI
Author(s): Professor Rebecca Riley
April 9, 2025
This report from UK think tank City-REDI outlines seven key recommendations to enhance data access within and between local authorities and national government.
Improving data sharing across UK Combined Authorities (CAs) is essential for driving smarter, evidence-based policymaking.
A new paper from the LPIP Hub outlines seven key recommendations to enhance data access, transparency, and collaboration within and between local authorities and national government. These include building data capacity within CAs, fostering partnerships, creating consistent data standards, and ensuring long-term investment in data infrastructure. The goal is to empower local leaders with the tools they need to make informed decisions tailored to their communities. Better data sharing not only enables more effective service delivery but also strengthens accountability and innovation across local and regional governments.
The paper emphasizes the importance of place-based approaches, where data is used to reflect the specific needs and priorities of each area. By advancing these recommendations, the UK can unlock the full potential of local data to deliver more responsive, inclusive, and impactful public policies.
