'This book is a powerful and exciting statement of the creative autonomy of British local Government. It explores how local authorities have found ways of pursuing innovative strategies, even in adversity. It is well-informed and right up-to-date in the concerns it raises. The authors' arguments represent a powerful corrective to the currently dominant academic and political "common sense", with its simple slogal of "modernisation".' Allan Cochrane, Open University

'The book has much to offer. Its promotion of the concept of creative autonomy is forceful, insightful, and a valuable contribution to the literature on local governance in the United Kingdom.' Environment and Planning

"This is an excellent book combining the offer of a comprehensive and authoritative text suitable for advanced undergraduates and masters students with the advancement of an important thesis." Social Policy