The article examines how public participation policies are put into practice in the UK, focusing on new local governance spaces. The study looked at 22 areas in England and found that complex factors like power dynamics and organizational culture can weaken the impact of these policies. Despite challenges, citizens are still eager to have a say in shaping policies, using both traditional and non-traditional methods. The article suggests that public participation policies should be flexible during times of austerity to allow for positive outcomes.