Government tinkering 'stifles regeneration', says JRF

The constant tinkering is making it impossible for regeneration bodies to form relationships, according to a report from the foundation. The report also highlights the failure of government to set a good example with proper joined-up working between Whitehall ministries.

The report's author, professor Alan McGregor of Glasgow University, said the biggest contribution government could immediately make to regeneration would be to stop the barrage of new initiatives and rule changes on existing programmes. This would allow local staff to build solid relationships with national agencies.

He said programmes for the unemployed were "riven" with this problem.

McGregor also recommended that the government simplify its monitoring and auditing criteria systems. On a local level he suggested that agencies encourage overlapping board membership to promote joint working.