Economy: Inflation rates: The current inflation rate is 2.8%. Inflation has fallen but is expected to go up again as the energy price rises have their knock-on effects. The Bank of England target for inflation is 2%. Interest rates: The current bank rate has been held at 3.75%. The next …

Senior Consultant Chris has over 20 years’ experience in local government serving as a Conservative councillor at Brentwood Borough Council, covering key roles including chair of the Planning Committee and leader of the Council, during which time he oversaw the adoption of the Local development Plan. Former chair of South …

Economy: Inflation rates – As of 8 June, the inflation rate is 2.8%, against the Bank of England (BoE) target being 2%. Inflation is expected to rise in the coming months due to the ongoing Middle East conflict and resulting rising costs for consumer goods and high energy prices. Interest rates – The BoE …

Chelgate Local has opened offices on Northampton Business Park, Northampton, as an initial step into the Midlands. Michael Hardware, Chelgate Local Director, said: “This is an important step for us as the Midlands has huge opportunities for growth. The region is driven by globally leading clusters in advanced manufacturing, high-performance tech, and …

Essex Councils Reform UK now hold overall political control of Essex County Council. In the May 2026 local elections Reform UK won 53 seats on the authority ending the Conservatives’ 25 years reign at the local authority. Reform UK won a clear majority and form the new administration. Following the …

Sussex Councils  East Sussex County Council: The council is currently in the control of Reform UK, as a minority administration, with the Liberal Democrats on 13 seats (up two seats), the Greens on 11 seats (up seven seats), the Conservatives on three seats (down 24 seats) and Labour losing all …

Buckinghamshire Councils There were no elections in Buckinghamshire in 2026. Following the significant Conservative losses at the 2025 election, the Conservatives retained a slim majority (52%) and continue to run Buckinghamshire Council. The authority remains under Conservative control ahead of the next elections in 2029. After the 2026 elections Milton …

On Friday, 15th May 2026, Chelgate Local and Vail Williams co-hosted a Local Government and Devolution Breakfast Briefing at Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking, Surrey. The event was chaired by Nick Wood- Dow, deputy lieutenant of Surrey and Chelgate deputy chairman.   Nick Wood-Dow kickstarted the event after 45 attendees enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast buffet. He welcomed the audience to Denbies Wine Estate …