The Act empowers local communities by giving them rights to buy community assets, influence local planning, and participate in governance, while also devolving significant powers to local authorities and mayors.
Overview
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 originated as the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, introduced in July 2025 and receiving Royal Assent on 29 April 2026. It represents one of the most significant reforms to local government in England since 2016, implementing the government’s English Devolution White Paper of December 2024 and Labour’s “Take Back Control” pledge. The Act aims to rebalance power from central government to local leaders and communities, enhancing local decision-making and economic development.
Local Government Lawyer
Key Provisions
- Devolution and Local Governance
- Establishes Strategic Authorities, including the Greater London Authority, combined authorities, and combined county authorities, tiered as Foundation, Mayoral, and Established Mayoral.
- Grants Mayoral Strategic Authorities powers over transport, infrastructure, skills, housing, economic regeneration, environment, health, public safety, and strategic planning.
- Introduces mechanisms for local government reorganisation, governance reforms, and neighbourhood governance to amplify local voices.
Community Empowerment Measures
Community Right to Buy: Local people have first refusal on assets of community value when they are up for sale.
Gambling Impact Assessments: Councils can refuse new gambling premises based on local impact.
Commercial Lease Reforms: Bans upwards-only rent review clauses in new and renewed leases, affecting both England and Wales.
Additional powers include regulation of taxi drivers, dangerous pavement parking, and rental e-bike licensing.
Strategic and Economic Development
- Supports the creation of Integrated Settlements and Mayoral Development Orders, allowing local authorities to manage planning applications of strategic importance.
- Encourages investment in trailblazer neighbourhoods and deprived communities, with a £500 million commitment to improve local areas.
- Expands devolution coverage to nearly 77% of England, benefiting over 44 million people.
Implications for Local Communities
The Act is designed to strengthen local democracy and community participation, giving residents more control over local assets and decision-making. It also enhances accountability by reforming local authority governance and introducing national standards for certain services. By devolving powers and resources, the Act aims to boost local economic growth, improve public services, and create thriving, empowered communities.
Conclusion
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 is a landmark piece of legislation that combines devolution, local government reform, and community empowerment. It provides legal frameworks for local authorities and communities to take greater control over planning, assets, and services, marking a generational shift in governance across England.
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