All eyes on the Autumn budget

On 28 October 2026, the new UK Prime Minister, and Chancellor of the Exchequer, will deliver their first Budget.

Regional mayors and strategic authorities (in England) are expected to get new powers over income tax, and business rates in their areas (as well as increased commissioning, skills funding and inward investment).

Businesses want good news about growth levers, tax and regulation. Public services want clarity, stability and investment. Campaigners and community stewards want to know that decisions will be fair, future-focused and honest about environmental and social challenges.

Most of the conversation will focus on how much money is moving tolocal areas. But is every stakeholder that powers our regional economies ready for this?

The Always Possible team have been exploring what actually makes that money work when it is intended to lead to specific outcomes.

Read the full bulletin for our latest thinking, project insights and examples.