This year’s conference comes at a pivotal time for local government in Devon, with upcoming changes set to shape the future of local services and governance. Against this backdrop, the theme of this year’s conference is partnership – recognising the increasingly important role that collaboration will play in supporting communities across Devon in the years ahead.
The conference will bring together councillors, clerks, sector experts and partner organisations from across the county for a full day of learning, networking and discussion. Delegates will benefit from a varied programme of keynote sessions, practical workshops, sector updates and opportunities to share experiences with colleagues from across Devon.
Topics will include local government reorganisation, neighbourhood planning, community self-help schemes, digital tools for councils, legal updates and more. An extensive exhibition and networking zone will also provide opportunities to connect with organisations supporting the local council sector.
DALC chief executive Rebecca Walker said:
“This is a particularly exciting year for the DALC conference, at a time when we hope to have greater clarity on local government reorganisation in Devon.
“In the years ahead, collaborative working will be more important than ever for local authorities, and partnership is therefore at the heart of this year’s conference theme. Whether that means working across boundaries with neighbouring parishes, strengthening relationships with principal authorities to address key issues such as flooding and highways, progressing neighbourhood planning, or preparing for the next stages of local government reorganisation, there has never been a more important moment to come together and learn.
“We have designed a varied programme, created to inform, inspire and support our members through the challenges and opportunities ahead to help them best serve their communities. I’m looking forward to welcoming lots of our member councils to what promises to be a valuable and timely event.”
DALC is delighted to welcome Parish Online as headline sponsor of this year’s conference.
Chris Mewse, managing director of Parish Online, said:
“Parish Online is proud to support DALC’s valuable work. We love attending DALC events, contributing to the workshops and catching up with our many valued customers in Devon.”
Early bird tickets are available at the 2025 price of £50 + VAT per person for bookings made by Sunday 9 August. Tickets will increase to £60 + VAT thereafter.
A draft programme and further information about speakers, workshops and exhibitors are available on the conference webpage. Please note that the programme remains subject to change.