Opening Launch and Mayoral Debate

Monday, 5th November 2012, 6pm - 8.30pm
Event details The future of local democracy
Event holder(s) Professor Alex Marsh, SPS

Professor Gary Bridge, SPS

Professor Colin Copus, De Montfort University

Dr Catherine Durose, INLOGOV, University of Birmingham

Title The future of local democracy
Type of event Panel Discussion
Date 05/11/2012
Time 6pm-8.30pm (including the festival launch reception from 6pm - 6.45pm)
Venue The Great Hall, Wills Memorial Building, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RJ
Chair Professor Alex Marsh
Booking link http://openinglaunchdebate.eventbrite.co.uk
Abstract

Contemporary policy places considerable emphasis upon Localism. Yet, participation in local elections and other aspects of representative democracy is in decline in many Western democratic countries. In a bid to stimulate engagement local governments have experimented with a range of alternative mechanisms for involving residents, such as Citizens’ Panels. Moving to civic leadership by an Elected Mayor, as Bristol will do shortly, is one key innovation championed for its potential to reinvigorate political engagement. This session examines the broad trends in local democratic practice and considers the challenges and prospects for democratic renewal and enhanced public participation in local politics.

This event is preceded by a wine reception to open "Thinking Futures": The University of Bristol's Festival of Social Sciences and Law from 6pm - 6.45pm.