Stronger together: How LIOs can navigate devolution through collaboration

The English Devolution White Paper will significantly reshape local government, requiring local infrastructure organisations (LIOs) to navigate new decision-making structures and the way services are organised and delivered in different locations. With Strategic Authorities (SAs) set to cover all of England, LIOs will need to build stronger relationships across boundaries to remain effective and influential.  

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We surveyed members to find out more about their existing partnerships and collaborations, and this learning may provide starting points for LIOs seeking to develop or deepen their relationships with each other.

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By talking to members, we found that collaboration between LIOs is already happening in response to changes such as Integrated Care Systems (ICS) and Mayoral Combined Authorities. Many organisations have formed sub-regional partnerships – and in other cases they have merged with neighbours. In every, case new relationships aim to strengthen service delivery, enhance policy influence, and increase efficiency.

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We found that the most important things for members to consider are:

• Be clear on why you’re working together - beyond just funding. A shared vision and purpose will help shape a strong collaboration.

• Identify joint activities that benefit everyone and strengthen service delivery.

• Decide how you’ll engage in policy and influencing work, and where to focus your efforts.

• Consider a shared brand and identity to improve communication with stakeholders.

• Build on each member’s strengths and explore whether a formal structure would support this.

• Think about involving associate members to bring in fresh perspectives and extend your impact.

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As devolution progresses, LIOs must be proactive in shaping the future of local infrastructure. By learning from existing partnerships, they can create stronger, more resilient models that benefit communities across new governance landscapes.

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Download the full paper to explore key insights and practical steps for collaboration.