Government floats Bill on local authority regulation

The measures are the latest elements in the government’s better regulation drive to cut red tape.

Under the proposals, authorities will have to follow a statutory code of practice and adopt a risk-based approach to regulation focusing on persistent offenders and the most damaging operations. Authorities will only carry out inspections after conducting a risk assessment.

The Cabinet Office is consulting on new legislation as part of the proposed package of measures.

A draft Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Bill would give authorities new powers to impose fines or require businesses to halt non-compliant activities and take steps to remedy or compensate for any damage.