Major Changes at MHCLG

In a significant development, as of April 1, 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has assumed ministerial responsibility for all fire functions, previously handled by the Home Office. This transition implements a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which advised consolidating fire and building safety oversight under a single department.

Departmental Evolution

The department underwent a notable transformation in July 2024 when it reverted from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) back to its previous name, MHCLG. Minister McMahon characterized this change as a “reshaping of the department” and “grown up politics,” noting that the previous name was “only ever a slogan.”

Current Responsibilities and Operations

MHCLG now stands as a central pillar in the mission-driven government, focusing on essential areas such as affordable housing, community empowerment, and local government rebuilding. The ministry operates with the support of 18 agencies and public bodies.

Recent Policy Developments

The ministry is currently overseeing several significant initiatives, including the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, which has received positive coverage across national and regional media. Additionally, the department has launched the Fair Funding Review 2.0, aimed at reforming local authority funding to create a more equitable and future-proof system.

Housing and Community Initiatives

The department continues to manage various community resources, including allotments, which are protected under strict criteria and recognized as valuable community assets. Recent focus has also been placed on addressing housing challenges, with the ministry actively responding to reports on tenant exploitation and dangerous housing conditions while working to implement fair funding solutions for local authorities.