Community Empowerment and Renewal Act

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What if communities were able to make decisions about land usage in their neighborhoods, rather than the Council? What if Parliament or Governments acknowledged that residents are aware of what their community needs, and could effectively manage land usage and determine optimal use for empty buildings, spaces and underused land?
Residents should be taking the initiative to participate in their communities. The local Councils and Government at large can, and should support positive initiatives like community gardening and food growing.  

 

Consider the Community Empowerment and Renewal Act:  http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2012/06/7786/3

Specifically, consider Point 4 of the Introduction:

In developing initial ideas for this Bill we have spoken to many people across all sectors and from a number of different communities throughout Scotland. We have heard from those communities, and from many in local authorities and the wider public sector, of inspiring and innovative examples of work already being undertaken to support community empowerment. However, we also heard that much of the success to date has been achieved despite the current rules and regulations rather than because of them. This consultation seeks ideas to rectify that situation.    

For the full publication, please see: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2009/03/20155113/0 

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