Overview

The Localism Act 2011 received Royal Assent on 15 November 2011, with the Government hopeful that the majority of its provisions will be in force by April 2012. The Act is a significant milestone in the Government's localism agenda, which is designed to shift power and the decision-making process on a range of matters from Whitehall to the local planning authorities and communities ultimately affected by those decisions.

This general overview from Shoosmiths outlines how the Act now puts on a statutory footing a number of previously well publicised changes, including:

● the abolition of regional strategies;

● 'duty to co-operate';

● neighbourhood plans;

● Community Infrastructure Levy;

● consultation;

● pre-determination; and

● Infrastructure Planning Commission.

Click 'View Briefing' to read on.