A new geography of local government: The changing role of town and parish councils in Cornwall, UK

This report will contribute to Locality's Commission on the Future of Localism. It documents new research to explore the changing role of town and parish councils in Cornwall. Given support for devolution and the impact of financial restrictions, Cornwall Council has transferred important assets like parks, public toilets, libraries and monuments to the ownership and care of local councils. The research documented this process and its impact on the finances, role and operation of local councils in Cornwall. The research has wider implications for debates about asset transfer, austerity, devolution and localism.