Labour’s Plan to Give Power Back to Local Areas
The biggest transfer of power from Westminster in a century to drive growth, strengthen communities and improve local services.
The Labour government’s landmark English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill will deliver the largest transfer of power out of Westminster to England’s regions and communities for over 100 years.
From bus tickets and healthcare appointments to education and job opportunities, deepening devolution will give communities across every region a stronger say over the decisions that affect their day‑to‑day lives.
The Bill introduces a suite of new community powers designed to protect valued local assets, strengthen neighbourhood voices and support thriving high streets. Key measures include:
- A new Community Right to Buy, making it easier for communities to take ownership of pubs, shops and social hubs.
- New ‘Sporting’ Asset of Community Value protections, helping save local sports grounds from being lost to development.
- A ban on Upward Only Rent Review (UORR) clauses in commercial leases, which can drive up rents, squeeze businesses and lead to shop closures.
- New neighbourhood governance arrangements, giving residents a stronger voice in shaping their local areas.
A new Local Audit Office will make council audits more effective and efficient, reduce duplication, and ensure public money is directed where it can make the biggest difference.
By backing local leadership and empowering communities to shape their futures, the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill sets out a bold new settlement for England. One that drives growth, protects local identity and ensures decision‑making happens closer to the people it affects.