Chamberlain Lecture: Andy Street Calls for a New Era of Local Leadership

Cratus was pleased to host the eighth annual Chamberlain Lecture at Highbury Hall, Birmingham, with this year’s address delivered by former Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street CBE.

Introduced by Cratus Founder and Managing Director Nick Kilby, the lecture reflected on the enduring legacy of Joseph Chamberlain and his role in shaping modern municipal government. Nick also drew a powerful connection between Chamberlain’s response to Birmingham’s slums and today’s housing crisis, referencing Cratus’ 165,000 Reasons campaign on children living in temporary accommodation.

Speaking from Chamberlain’s former home, Andy Street argued that local and regional government must now step forward as part of the national solution to Britain’s challenges. He made the case for deeper devolution, including greater fiscal powers for regions, so local leaders can invest in the priorities that matter most to their communities.

Andy also highlighted the continuing importance of councils in delivering the services, regeneration and civic leadership that shape people’s everyday lives. From tackling rough sleeping to driving major regeneration schemes across the West Midlands, he stressed that strong local government remains central to creating successful places.

The lecture also explored Birmingham’s civic identity and the need to rebuild confidence in the city following recent challenges. Andy called for political, business, cultural and community leaders to work together around a shared vision for the future.

At its heart, this year’s Chamberlain Lecture was a call for ambition, responsibility and renewed local leadership. These are values that remain as relevant today as they were in Chamberlain’s time.