LLG Spring Conference 2026 Opens in Birmingham with Focus on Governance and Change
The LLG Spring Conference 2026 opened this morning in Birmingham, bringing together colleagues, partners and professionals from across local government for two days of discussion, insight and shared learning.
In opening the conference, the LLG President welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of the profession at a time of significant change. They described it as “a genuine privilege” to see so many from across the sector gathered together, and thanked delegates for their ongoing commitment to public service, effective governance and the legal profession.
The President also paid tribute to the LLG team, recognising the significant work that goes on behind the scenes to deliver the conference and wider organisational activity. Delegates were reminded that the strength of the programme across the two days reflects that effort, and that the event itself would not be possible without it.
Leadership: Legacy and Responsibility
Speaking about their new role, the President said they were both “delighted and deeply honoured” to serve, emphasising that the trust placed in them by peers is not something taken lightly.
Tribute was paid to outgoing President Paul Turner, whose leadership and contribution, including the establishment of AMO, were acknowledged as central to the organisation’s current strength. The President also recognised the support he had provided to colleagues during his term.
Former Presidents were also acknowledged; with recognition of the legacy they have collectively built. The President highlighted the enduring values that continue to define LLG: professional integrity, independence of thought and a commitment to public service.
Responding to Change Across Local Government
A central theme of the address was the scale of change currently facing local government. The President pointed to the range of issues reflected in the conference agenda, including reorganisation, devolution, planning, procurement and regulatory change, and framed these within a broader question:
How do we sustain effective, lawful and trusted governance within systems that are continuing to evolve?
In this context, the President stressed that the role of governance professionals is becoming increasingly visible and critical.
“Our work is not about directing outcomes,” delegates heard. “It is about ensuring that decisions are taken properly: lawfully, transparently and with a clear understanding of risk and accountability.”
The address emphasised that this requires more than technical expertise, highlighting the importance of judgement, confidence and constructive engagement with members, colleagues and peers.
The Role of Professional Confidence and Relationships
The value of professional relationships and peer support was another key theme. Conferences such as this were described as “vital” not only for sharing knowledge, but for reinforcing the confidence that underpins effective governance.
The President acknowledged the pressures many professionals are working under, with political change, new administrations and structural reform shaping working environments across the sector. These conditions, it was noted, often bring shifting expectations and complex responsibilities.
In response, the President emphasised that good governance is not about rigid adherence to process, but about clarity: ensuring coherent systems, sound decision making and advice that is grounded, balanced and clear.
Governance at the Heart of the Profession
Highlighting the breadth of work undertaken across local government legal practice, the President pointed to the conference programme as a reflection of the profession’s diversity: from major strategic issues such as devolution and infrastructure to the practical challenges of litigation, data and regulatory services.
Despite that breadth, one unifying theme was clear:
“Ultimately, all local government lawyers are governance lawyers.”
The address reinforced that, regardless of their specific area of practice, professionals play a fundamental role in enabling lawful, accountable and effective decision making, and in maintaining the integrity of local government.
Standards: Ethics and Enabling Good Decision Making
The President spoke directly to the importance of standards and ethics, positioning them not as constraints but as enablers of confidence: in systems, in advice and in the institutions served.
Good governance, delegates heard, should not create fear or unnecessary caution. Instead, it should support robust debate, lawful challenge and informed decision making, while enabling effective leadership rather than inhibiting it.
Professionals were encouraged to remain confident in speaking clearly, offering challenge where appropriate and upholding the principles of public service.
A Clear Approach for the Year Ahead
Looking ahead, the President outlined a clear and straightforward approach for their term: to support the profession, reinforce clarity and ensure that LLG continues to provide a trusted and steady voice during a period of ongoing change.
A Conference Focused on Confidence and Connection
Closing the opening address, delegates were encouraged to make the most of the day: across main sessions, breakouts and informal conversations: with the aim of leaving not only better informed, but more confident in their role in supporting good governance.
The LLG Spring Conference 2026 continues throughout today and tomorrow, with a programme designed to reflect both the complexity and the importance of governance across local government.
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