Recommendation 150

Following criticisms of the complexity in this funding structure, the then DLUHC took steps to simplify the funding landscape for local authorities. It published a funding simplification plan in July 2023, which included simplifying the process for local authorities to change their agreed plans. 299 As part of this simplification plan, 10 local authorities already in receipt of multiple funding streams were invited in July 2023 to participate in ‘pathfinder simplification pilots’ in which money received from multiple funds could be pooled. 300 The selected local authorities were then required to submit investment plans to the department and were able to commence the pilot after their plans were approved. The Government has yet to draw conclusions from the pathfinder simplification pilots.