Transition to localism

The desire to shift power away from central and regional government to local authorities and local communities is a core objective of the Coalition Government.

In December 2010, the Government published its long-awaited Localism Bill, which provides the framework through which power will be devolved. If passed, the Bill will bring with it significant changes to the planning system, new powers for local government, as well as providing new rights for local communities to shape a vision for their area and to take greater control of local services.

The Bill is complex and wide-ranging and changes the way decisions are made and the environment through which architects operate. This is a big challenge for the profession, but also provides new opportunities.

Throughout 2011, the RIBA will begin a major programme of work designed to ensure that the organisation and profession are well-equipped to adapt to the change, are well placed to meet the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that localism will bring with it.

To find out more about localism, please click on the links below:

Getting the National Framework right|

Building design capacity at local level|

Supporting the profession|

 

Localism: what does it mean to you?

By its definition, localism will mean different things in different places and produce different outcomes. But what does it mean to you? How will it work in your area? How do you think the Government’s proposals can be best made to work?

Whilst the Government continues to develop the detail behind localism, we want to start a conversation across all parts of the RIBA, to ensure we can adapt quickly and we harness the ideas and experience of our members. 

If you have any thoughts or suggestions or would like any further information, please send them to public.affairs@riba.org