Community Action Derby Kim Harper Localism Act

Background to the Act It was first discussed as an idea and mentioned by Government (particularly Eric Pickles') early in The proposal to develop the bill was announced in the Queen's Speech on 24 May last year. It's one of the longest pieces of legislation ever to complete its passage through parliament, taking 18 months. The bill now ACT has changed through its various Readings, Committee and Report Stages in both Houses. Some of the government's original proposals have disappeared completely Lobbyists have made some notable victories during the process.

Supporters of the Bill maintain that never before has a government devolved so much power to local councils and communities. Critics argue that, it's a 'centralism bill' that grants the Secretary of State approximately 150 new powers to repeal, amend, revoke or dis apply any duty on local authorities. It received Royal Assent and became statute just over a week ago.

Some of the detail Assets of Community Value (still sometimes inaccurately referred to as the 'Community Right to Buy') will ensure that community organisations can ask councils to list nominated local properties and facilities; should these community assets then be put up for sale, there will be 6 months to develop bids to buy them. Community Right to Challenge – there was a campaign to put safeguards in place to prevent national and profit driven firms from benefiting over local, and locally valued, service providers. Only time will tell whether this opens the door for large and unaccountable service delivery organisations to move in and take over local public services

Planning Neighbourhood Plans - Originally these could be drawn up by as few as three local people. It will now require a neighbourhood forum of not fewer than 21 members including local councillors. The forums, will be required to take into account social and environmental considerations; not just the promotion of local business. Applications for planning permission: local finance considerations – ( Cash for Sprawl ) There was strong opposition to this clause. Local planning consent can be effectively 'bought', through financial incentives including the Community Infrastructure Levy and the New Homes Bonus. Core Cities This will allow the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to devolve further powers to cities at their request, without the need for additional legislation. Didn’t get in! A certain proportion of local voters to trigger a local referendum on any local issue - abandoned because of the possible cost. Referendums in 11 English cities on whether or not to elect a mayor, the proposal to appoint 'shadow mayors‘ has been dropped. Combining the functions of elected mayor and council chief executive in one role.

My Concerns Localism and Open Public Services Bill- mean a significant impact on the country Empowers the loudest voice or sharpest elbow Equality- where is it? It isn’t fairness! Where are the accountability frameworks Freedom of Information Act – will not apply on outsourced services Statutory sector founded to provide equity – being dismantled for a free market?

Thank you Any Questions?