Localism Bill becomes law17 November 2011
The Localism Act brings in new neighbourhood planning and changes to local government.
The Localism Bill received royal assent and became an official Act on 15 November - just weeks after the final third reading in the House of Commons.
What's missing?
Friends of the Earth believes the Government missed an opportunity to set out a clear definition of sustainable development in law.
Without such a clear definition, we could see more bad planning and poor-quality development threatening our environment.
A legal definition of sustainable development would have made it clear that the Government wants the right development for a low-carbon economic recovery.
Naomi Luhde-Thompson, Friends of the Earth
Since late 2010 Friends of the Earth has been campaigning for the Localism Bill to:
- Include a clear definition of sustainable development to help safeguard our environment for future generations.
- Give people a right to a say in person in neighbourhood planning.
- Tackle climate change and its impacts.
What's next?
Friends of the Earth is working to make sure the new planning policy framework has a clear definition of sustainable development.
By doing this we can ensure planning in England promotes a fair and sustainable future, rather than encouraging a rash of short-term and damaging developments.
Find out more and sign up to our Localism Hub to get involved.
© Friends of the Earth
