Overview

This bill proposes a new system requiring local referendums before the sale of school playing fields in England. It aims to give local communities more say over the disposal of these important recreational areas.

Description

The bill mandates that local education authorities (LEAs), academies, and other state-funded schools cannot sell playing fields (defined as grassed pitches of at least 2000m², synthetic surfaces, or hard courts for team games) without following specific procedures. These procedures begin with a public consultation, which must include information on the proposed sale, alternative uses of the land, mitigation for the loss of amenity, and the petition process.

If a petition objecting to the sale, signed by a sufficient number of eligible voters (as defined by regulations to be determined by the Secretary of State), is received, a local referendum must be held. The referendum will be decided by a simple majority. If the referendum rejects the sale, the land cannot be sold for 10 years except in "extraordinary circumstances," as determined by regulations.

The Secretary of State will create regulations detailing the petition process, referendum procedures, the threshold of signatures required to trigger a referendum, the referendum question's content, and the definition of "eligible persons." These regulations require a public consultation and parliamentary approval. A review of the bill's effectiveness will take place within five years of its implementation.

Government Spending

The bill does not explicitly state the projected cost. However, the government will incur costs associated with the administration of referendums and the development of supporting regulations and review processes. Precise figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Local Education Authorities (LEAs), Academies, and Schools: These bodies will face new legal requirements regarding the sale of playing fields, including mandatory consultation and potentially costly referendums.
• Local Communities: Communities will gain a greater voice in decisions about school playing fields through the referendum process, potentially preventing sales they oppose.
• Developers and Potential Buyers: The bill may hinder the sale and development of school playing fields, impacting their business.
• Secretary of State: Responsible for creating and implementing regulations, conducting consultations, and overseeing the review process.

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