Today, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stood outside Number 10 in the rain and called a general election for Thursday 4 July. Framing the announcement around falling inflation and signs of economic recovery, he promised to “fight for every vote” as the country prepares for its first summer election since 1945.

The decision to go early, rather than wait until the autumn, caught many off guard, including some in Sunak’s own party. Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer responded with his message for the campaign: “It’s time for change.”

Whatever happens over the next six weeks, this is a crucial moment for our communities and the infrastructure they rely on.

Community centres, libraries, parks, youth hubs, local halls, and shared digital spaces are not ‘nice-to-haves’. They’re what we need to improve lives and wellbeing. But they’re too often overlooked or underfunded. That’s why we’re calling on all political parties to put community infrastructure at the heart of their manifestos.

This isn’t just about public spending. Private capital, local enterprise, and public-private partnerships have a vital role to play in helping communities thrive. From investing in high streets and social spaces, to co-creating digital hubs and backing local regeneration, the next government must unlock a new wave of collaboration.

We need more than promises — we need a plan.

What we’re asking for:

• Long-term funding certainty for councils and communities

• Protection and expansion of local assets

• More power and funding in local hands

• Smarter use of digital tools — with ethical use of AI

• Greater transparency on what’s owned, run, and valued in our neighbourhoods

• And a genuine partnership between the public, private and community sectors

The campaign is just getting started. We will continue to make our case throughout the election. To every party hoping to lead the country after 4 July: investing in places and people must be a priority.

To take part in our work throughout the election, join our community here.