On 29 April 2026, the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill received Royal Assent, adding new powers for mayors and local authorities. The Act establishes Community Rights to Buy, giving local people the first right of refusal for community assets such as shops and centres. It introduces Gambling Impact Assessments to help councils control the opening of new gambling shops and bans Upwards‑Only Rent Review clauses in commercial leases. Road‑related provisions set national taxi‑driver standards and allow enforcement of licences outside a driver’s local area. New powers let transport authorities issue fixed‑penalty notices for dangerous pavement parking and regulate rental e‑bike licensing. Strategic Authorities with elected mayors will gain devolved powers in transport, planning, housing, and regeneration, and must produce local growth plans and health‑improvement policies. Local Scrutiny Committees and a Local Audit Office will enhance oversight of spending and finance.
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