Just two years after it was established East Midlands Property Alliance (empa) has already built itself a solid reputation for delivering results. Formed by local authorities in the East Midlands, empa's role is to improve the delivery of property services;providing guidance on best practice and efficiency savings.

Corby Borough Council, and partners, have been awarded a Green Flag by the Comprehensive Area Assessment (CAA) for recovery and rejuvenation in the town following One Corby approach to regeneration and service delivery adopted in 2004.

The economic downturn is impacting employment, communities and businesses up and down the country. Local authorities are addressing their responsibility to respond to the challenges the recession brings in different ways.