Overview

The Local Government (Review of Decisions) Bill aims to improve the process by which local authorities in England and Wales handle decisions affecting events, particularly those based on health and safety grounds. It introduces a requirement for quicker notification, clearer reasons, and a mandatory review process for such decisions.

Description

This bill amends the Local Government Act 1974. Key changes include:

Event Decisions and Notification:

Local authorities must notify event organizers (or applicants) of decisions impacting events due to health and safety concerns within one working day. This notification must detail the decision's impact (cancellation, restrictions, conditions), and provide reasons.

Review Process:

Organizers can request a review of the decision within 15 days. The authority must complete this review within 15 days of receiving the request, and notify the organizer of the outcome with reasons. Possible outcomes of the review include confirming, withdrawing, replacing, or varying the original decision.

Ombudsman Investigations:

The bill also modifies the procedure for investigations conducted by the Local Government Ombudsman, allowing for varied procedures based on case type, potentially enabling faster processing of certain cases.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in spending due to its implementation will be covered by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities in England and Wales: They will be responsible for implementing the new notification and review procedures, potentially increasing their administrative workload.
• Event Organizers: They will benefit from clearer communication and a quicker review process regarding decisions affecting their events.
• Individuals Attending Events: Indirectly affected through changes to event organization related to health and safety.
• Local Government Ombudsman: Their investigation procedures will be adjusted to potentially allow for faster resolution of some cases.

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