Chelgate has been providing political engagement and community consultation support to our clients for almost 40 years. Over the past decade, we have worked on over 100 projects totalling over 50,000 dwellings and, over the last 2.5 years, we have …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …