A new community planning law has come into force today, 20 December.

The second part of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 means local public sector bodies must engage with local communities on community planning projects.

Overall, organisations such as councils, NHS boards and Police Scotland now must secure participation from the local public in their work.

Local Government Minister Kevin Stewart marked the start of the legislation by visiting Lochee Hub in Dundee. The facility was built three months ago in response to calls for a community space, which offers health and wellbeing provision, as well as a space for community groups to use.

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Minister Stewart said: "When people have greater control of their own future, they are more engaged and are able to tackle barriers to making their communities wealthier and fairer. By putting legislation in place, we are making it clear that consultation is no longer enough and that the participation of communities in decision making is vital.

"My visit to Dundee today has shown the types of meaningful action this can result in – Lochee Hub is a fantastic example of how the community has come together with Dundee City Council, NHS Tayside and voluntary organisations to create a space that people in the area were crying out for."

(LM)