A Bill published in December provides greater opportunities for the public to engage in local democracy. The Local Democracy Economic Development and Construction Bill places a duty on local authorities to promote local democracy in Councils and all partner bodies; every Council has to adopt a scheme to handle electronic and traditional petitions; schemes will require Councils to respond, debate or allow officers to be called to account in public meetings; the duty to involve has been extended to other public bodies, such as the police; the formation of a national body to represent tenants; and dedicated scrutiny officers.

The view from The Consultation Institute is that this long overdue legislation will provide an excellent stimulus for more co-ordinated public consultation. Sauce is an approved partner of The Consultation Institute.

A briefing paper on Public engagement aspects of The Local Democracy Economic Development and Construction Bill has been produced – please email us for a copy.

Tags: Consultation Institute

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