As well as introducing the 'mainstream' ideologies of Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism, this text also examines challenges from nationalists, feminists and Green thinkers, and the ideological controversy surrounding multiculturalism. It concludes by reviewing the prospects for ideology in an increasingly depoliticised Britain.

Contemporary local governance in Britain comprises a complex network of organisations working in partnership to formulate policies to address local needs and issues. Within this, local government continues to play an important part in policy and practice and in the structures and processes of local democracy. This book provides a systematic assessment of the key development issues and debates that are shaping local governance now situating these in their historical context.