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 concerns. It introduces a more structured review process for such decisions and clarifies the procedures used by the Local Government Ombudsman.

Description

Event-Related Decisions

The bill adds a new section (Part 2A) to the Local Government Act 1974. This section mandates that if a local authority decides to stop, restrict, or condition an event due to health and safety, it must notify the event applicant or organiser promptly (within one working day). This notification must include the reasons for the decision.

Review Process

The bill grants the applicant or organiser the right to request a review of the decision within 15 days. The authority is obligated to complete the review within 15 days of receiving the request and communicate its decision, including reasons, promptly. The review can lead to confirmation, withdrawal, replacement, or variation of the initial decision.

Ombudsman Procedures

The bill amends Section 28 of the 1974 Act, granting the Local Government Ombudsman more flexibility in their investigation procedures. This includes the ability to use different procedures for different types of cases, potentially speeding up some investigations.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in government spending resulting from this Act will be met from money provided by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities in England and Wales: Will be required to implement the new notification and review procedures, potentially increasing administrative burdens.
• Event Organisers: Will have a clearer right to review decisions affecting their events, leading to potentially quicker resolutions.
• Event Applicants: Will receive clearer and quicker communication regarding decisions impacting their events.
• Local Government Ombudsman: Will have increased flexibility in their investigation processes.
• The Public: May benefit from improved transparency and efficiency in local authority decision-making concerning public events.

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