The Government has set out its plans to drive local growth and empower local leaders to regenerate their areas, in a Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill.
As first was going to press, the Bill was progressing through its Second Reading in the House of Commons.
It will enshrine in law government ‘missions’ to spread opportunity, drive productivity and boost local pride, and allow every area in England the chance to benefit from a devolution deal by 2030.
The Bill also sets out reforms to the planning system, including giving communities a major say on local plans.
Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, welcomed the extension of devolution, noting that the UK remains one of the most centralised countries in the democratic world.
He said: “Turning levelling up from a political slogan to a reality will only be achieved if councils have the powers and funding they need to address regional inequality, tackle concentrations of deprivation, and make towns and communities across England attractive places to live, work and visit.
“To deliver on levelling-up ambitions and ensure councils can deliver the right types of homes in the right places with appropriate infrastructure, a local, plan-led system is integral.”
He welcomed plans for a new infrastructure levy to be set at a local level, and to empower councils to bring vacant properties back into use. But permitted development rights – allowing conversion of offices, shops and restaurants into houses without the need to provide any affordable homes or infrastructure funding – need to be removed, so “councils can ensure the right homes are built in the right places”.
Reforms are also needed to Right to Buy, to support the building of new, high-quality council housing.