Overview

This bill, initially titled the Local Government Ombudsman (Amendment) Bill but later changed to the Local Government (Review of Decisions) Bill, aims to improve the process by which local authorities handle decisions affecting events due to health and safety concerns. It introduces a mandatory review process for such decisions and clarifies the procedures used by the Local Government Ombudsman in their investigations.

Description

The bill makes two key changes:

Part 2A: Decisions Relating to the Holding of Events

This new part mandates that if a local authority stops, restricts, or conditions an event due to health and safety concerns, they must:

• Notify the applicant or event organiser promptly (within one working day).
• Provide written notification including reasons for the decision.
• Offer a review of the decision within two weeks of receiving a request for review.
• Allow the review to confirm, withdraw, replace, or vary the original decision.

Procedure for Investigations by the Local Government Ombudsman

The bill amends the Local Government Act 1974 to give the Local Government Ombudsman more flexibility in conducting investigations. This includes the ability to adopt different procedures for different types of cases, potentially leading to faster resolution in some instances.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in government spending resulting from its implementation will be covered by money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Local authorities: They will have new responsibilities regarding notification, review procedures, and justification of decisions affecting events.
• Event organisers: They will gain a right to a prompt review of decisions impacting their events.
• Individuals attending events: Indirectly affected through the improved safety considerations and review mechanisms for event-related decisions.
• Local Government Ombudsman: Will have a revised procedure for conducting investigations.

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