Pristina and Belgrade supply local healthcare and education in parallel, but on Strpce's municipal council, Serbs and Albanians find themselves working together on practical issues such as refuse collection and street lighting.

BBC: Where Serbs meet the new Kosovo

The Local Government Association says the plans would also remove council's powers to refuse applications from street traders based on how many shops and traders are already at work and risk turning high streets into a free for all.

BBC: Street trading reform plans spark warning

HelioSlough Ltd had appealed against St Albans council's decision to refuse planning permission for the depot at a former aerodrome in Park Street.

BBC: St Albans freight terminal decision delayed

Families which refuse to co-operate could face benefit sanctions or eviction - but Downing Street says the vast majority want help with their problems.

BBC: Troubleshooters scheme to tackle 'troubled families'