Is this the end of local government as we know it? Councils must adapt to survive, say leaders

Local government leaders meet before panel interview and discussion at 2013 LGLQ. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

The panel was chaired by Public Leaders Network editor Jane Dudman (centre). Speakers included (L-R) Lesley Seary, chief executive of Islington council, Mike More, chief executive of Westminster city council, and Derrick Anderson, chief executive of Lambeth council. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

The Guardian's Public Leaders Network editor, Jane Dudman, opened the discussion about how local government could reinvent services in an era of cuts. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

Mike Moore, chief executive of Westminster city council, expressed concern that Whitehall policy was undermining the autonomy of local government. More was critical of central government proposals on planning and community engagement. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

Lesley Seary, chief executive of Islington council, answered questions from local government network members. She stressed that Islington must remain a mixed community as high rents threaten to push poorer people out. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

After the panel, delegates broke out into smaller roundtable discussions to understand the issues affecting local government. Participants also offered new solutions to these challenges. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

Table discussions took place under Chatham House rule so attendees could speak freely. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

Derrick Anderson, chief executive of Lambeth council, said authorities must adapt to survive – but the difficulties they face today are nothing new. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian

The night concluded with a chance to network with friends and colleagues, as local government network members chatted over drinks. Photograph: Anna Gordon/Guardian