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Localism Act

The Localism Act 2011 was introduced so that power could be passed from central government to individuals, communities and local councils

What does this mean?

The Localism Act has allowed new freedoms for local government, new rights and powers for communities and individuals, changes to the planning system and changes about local decisions made in relation to housing.

It also has a new set of rights for communities. These are:

  • community right to challenge
  • community right to bid

Community right to challenge

The community right to challenge allows voluntary and community groups, parish councils or two or more members of local authority staff to express an interest in running a service currently commissioned or delivered by the local council. Where the expressions of interest are accepted, the local council must run a competitive procurement exercise.

Community right to bid

The community right to bid allows communities to suggest buildings and land (assets) they consider to be of value to the community, to be included on a list maintained by the local council. If any of the assets on the register are put up for sale, the community is given the opportunity to express an interest in purchasing the asset, and then a further chance to bid.

Assets of Community Value Register - Feb 2024 [112KB]

Assets of Community Value Nomination Form [139KB]

Community right to bid policy [272KB]