Local government
Local government
Partnerships with local and regional government are central to our civic approach.
With Leeds City Council, we have developed a structured Research Collaboration Framework (PDF, 7.8MB). The Framework aligns research with policy challenges and has directed funding of more than £1 million into policy-relevant research since 2022.
We work closely with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, contributing to regional strategies on economic growth, skills and innovation, including West Yorkshire's £2.5 billion mass transit scheme.
We lead the Yorkshire and Humber Policy Innovation Partnership, funded by £5 million from UK Research and Innovation. With a focus on climate, inequalities and inclusive growth, the partnership fosters collaboration between universities and civic partners. Community voices are heard through the 'communities in their places' panel.
Email the Civic Exchange team
Our partnerships in action
-
Aligning our research with the Leeds Ambitions
Dr Abi Rowson, University of Leeds, and Mike Eakins, Head of Policy, Leeds City Council, introduce the Areas of Research Interest for 2025–2026.
-
Eyesore flourishes as self-sufficiency garden
Working with residents at Leeds City Council, researchers helped transform an eyesore plot of land into a thriving community garden.
-
Connecting community voices and planning decisions
Leeds City Council reached out to our researchers to ensure that citizens help to shape planning decisions in Leeds.