The Sustainable Communities Act 2007

The Sustainable Communities Act became law in October 2007. The Act enables local people to ask Central Government to make changes which will promote the sustainability of their local area.

Local Authorities are the channel through which people’s proposals are submitted. and they will consider the proposals and try to reach agreement with a local community panel about which proposals should be forwarded to Central Government. The local authority will then submit proposals to the Local Government Association (LGA) which will short-list them for consideration by the Secretary of State.

Who can submit a suggestion?

Anyone can submit a suggestion, but it is likely that suggestions will be made by organised groups such as community groups, resident associations and local branches of national organisations.

What kind of suggestions will be considered?

The remit for suggestions is broad and must aim to improve the economic, social or environmental well being of an area or areas. Social well being also includes suggestions that will promote participation in civic and political activity. Actions might include a change in legislation or government policy or a transfer of responsibilities from one public body to another.

Suggestions that do not require central government action may not be considered.

How do I submit a suggestion?

To simplify the process for people wishing to submit a proposal in Dorset the seven local authorities have taken a collaborative approach.

People complete one submission form and send it to a central point. It will then be forwarded to the local authority or local authorities you have named for consideration.

Submission forms and guidance are available at Purbeck District Council reception desk at Westport House, Worgret Road, Wareham, BH20 4PP or they can be downloaded from the Dorsetforyou website

http://www.dorsetforyou.com/index.jsp?articleid=391606

What happens to the proposals?

Eligible submissions will be considered for short-listing on 1st June by the Purbeck Sustainable Communities Panel before their recommendations are forwarded to Purbeck District Council who will consider all bids on 14th July.