Local government consultancy

Shaping local government policy and navigating change

We understand local government and the challenges faced by decision-makers. We work with councils throughout the UK to ensure local policy reflects the needs of diverse communities. Giving all residents a voice, on topics from local infrastructure projects to net zero and devolution, aids policy design that’s fair and equitable for all.

Local and combined authorities are crucial to making things happen in communities up and down the country

That’s why we’re committed to helping strengthen their bonds with residents and stakeholders through innovative, inclusive community engagement.

We have worked with 101 local authorities to convert the promise of mission-led growth into 792 real-world projects.
We have helped more than 10 local authorities develop decarbonisation strategies that will deliver on their net zero targets.

Cornwall LAEP

Copper has partnered with Cornwall Council to drive one of the UK’s most ambitious net zero engagement programmes, supporting the creation of the Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We are delivering a countywide roadshow and facilitating a 43-member citizens’ assembly, empowering residents, communities and businesses to shape the region’s net zero strategy over a six-month programme. We are also undertaking extensive engagement to ensure broad public buy-in, generate vital feedback and set a new benchmark for inclusive climate action planning at the local level, directly informing Cornwall’s evidence-based road map to net zero.

Driving engagement for net zero campaign

Severn Valley Water Management Scheme

This project tackles a legacy of flooding and drought across Shropshire and Powys, regions divided by the England–Wales border. With a £10 million investment, it combines nature-based and traditional engineering solutions to protect homes and businesses. Acknowledging complex political and linguistic sensitivities, Copper has established a clear bilingual brand and developed a robust engagement strategy to foster trust, build advocacy and influence public opinion. A digital engagement hub and bespoke toolbox promote transparency and participation, ensuring all stakeholders have access to information to help shape outcomes. This approach delivers resilient water management and lasting community benefits, setting a benchmark for cross-border collaboration.

Lasting community benefits

Basildon Borough Council

Copper delivered effective public engagement for Basildon Borough Council’s local plan, addressing the challenges of low awareness and public confusion. We streamlined complex information into clear, engaging materials, using infographics and schematics to highlight proposals. Copper actively facilitated diverse participation through various public drop-in events, online Q&As and community pop-ups in public spaces. These efforts fostered greater public trust and understanding, eliciting constructive feedback from a wide cross-section of the community. This enabled the council to shape its proposals effectively.

Improving community awareness and knowledge