Overview

The Retail Development Bill aims to support small retail businesses, establish an Office for Retail Planning (ORP), and reform retail planning and development processes in England and Wales. It seeks to promote competition, protect small businesses, and ensure diverse retail offerings across the country.

Description

The bill is divided into four parts. Part 1 focuses on supporting small retail premises by requiring authorities to consider their needs and establishing schemes for cooperative ownership. It also mandates a review of business rates for small retail premises. Part 2 establishes the ORP, giving it functions such as hearing planning representations for large retail developments (Class 3), conducting impact assessments, and making recommendations to local authorities. It also includes provisions for the ORP to address issues of land holding which might lessen competition. Part 3 introduces retail development plans for local authorities, specifying requirements for their preparation, independent examination, and adoption. These plans must address issues of diversity and competition in the retail sector, and consider the needs of the community. Part 4 contains general provisions regarding regulations and the bill's commencement and extent.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any direct figures for government spending. However, the creation and operation of the ORP, along with the mandated reviews and potential financial support for small retail businesses, will likely entail additional government expenditure. The exact amount remains undetermined. The costs will be covered by UK government.

Groups Affected

• Small Retail Businesses: May benefit from rate reviews, cooperative ownership schemes, and increased consideration in planning decisions.
• Local Authorities: Will be responsible for implementing the bill's provisions, including preparing retail development plans and cooperating with the ORP.
• Large Retail Businesses (Class 3): Will face more scrutiny in the planning process, including impact assessments conducted by the ORP.
• Consumers: May benefit from increased competition and a wider variety of retail services.
• Office for Retail Planning (ORP): Will be a new body responsible for overseeing retail planning and development.
• Secretary of State: Will have oversight of the ORP and a power to intervene in retail development plan processes.

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