This paper describes the pioneering experience of the city of Leicester (in the UK) over the last 10 years in developing its Local Agenda 21 and other aspects of its work towards environmental improvement and sustainable development. It includes details of measures to improve public transport and reduce congestion, traffic accidents, reduce car use and pollution. It also describes measures to improve housing quality for low income households. It describes in detail how this was done through participatory processes and specialist working groups.