The Localism Act (2011) revolutionised what local democracy means.The Community Rights element gave local residents and communities the right to run services and increased their capabilities to save local assets of value to the community. This revolution did not reach Wales as these measures only applied to England.
However this may be changing. When asked by Assembly Members, the Minister for Local Government and Government Business confirmed that she has held discussions with the Minster for Communities and Tackling Poverty and that these elements were being considered for Wales.
Janet Finch-Saunders AM said: “The Localism Act 2011 gave communities in England additional rights to help them preserve their community and I have long called for the these rights to be given to Welsh communities.”
“Until now the Welsh Government has refused to consider this but are now finally changing their tune. I am very glad to hear that this imbalance between Wales and England is being addressed and Welsh communities can save their local assets.”