English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill
Local councils are currently deciding on their governance structures under the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act.
Richmond Council was set to vote in January 2026 on retaining its committee system, which a report recommended. This would provide a five-year protected period until January 2031, with a review by January 2032. Kingston upon Thames decided in December 2025 to retain its committee system, permitted by the Local Government Act 2000.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, which received Royal Assent in April 2026, initially proposed a shift to a leader and cabinet model for local governance. However, amendments were laid before its passage, allowing councils like Kingston to maintain their existing committee systems. The Act establishes a new framework for devolution of powers in England.
Key facts
- Richmond Council was set to vote in January 2026 on retaining its committee system. Source
- Kingston upon Thames decided in December 2025 to retain its committee system. Source
- The Bill initially proposed a shift to a leader and cabinet model. Source
- Amendments were laid before the Bill's passage. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.