Grant Thornton - Quantifying Levelling Up

This report outlines Grant Thornton’s Levelling‑Up Index and summarises discussions held with county leaders at the County Councils Network’s (CCN) Annual Conference in late 2021.

It showcases how CCN member councils - covering almost half of England’s population and landmass - face distinct economic and social challenges but also play a critical role in driving local growth, skills and public service reform.

The Index provides a structured approach to assessing inequalities across areas and within localities, helping CCN councils identify targeted interventions.

The report stresses the importance of devolution, long‑term funding, aligned national–local priorities, and place‑based strategies to ensure levelling up is meaningful and measurable.  

Recommendations to government include:

• Roll out devolution at pace and across all parts of the country. Tailor levelling‑up solutions to local needs; avoid one‑size‑fits‑all models.
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• Improve clarity and communication from central government to avoid competition between councils.
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• Provide a mix of capital and revenue funding, with simplified funding streams.
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• Join up national policymaking across departments to support coherent local delivery.