What Nova Scotia Can Learn from the UK’s Localism Act
Now that Nova Scotia’s municipal and provincial elections are behind us, it’s time to think about what’s next. The Localism Act, introduced in the UK in 2011, could offer some fresh ideas. This law shifted decision-making power from the central government to local communities, giving neighbourhoods and communities more control over decisions that directly impact them. With challenges like housing, infrastructure, and public services pressing on Nova Scotia, we should ask: is this the change we need?
At its heart, the Localism Act is about giving people a real say. It allows communities to manage local assets—parks, libraries, and community centres—if they feel these are being poorly run. It also lets neighbourhoods create their development plans, putting local needs front and centre rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions from higher levels of government. Imagine what Nova Scotians could accomplish with similar tools to shape their communities.
Right now, many Nova Scotians feel disconnected from decision-making. Whether it’s housing policies or infrastructure projects, there’s a growing sense that people’s voices aren’t being heard. Borrowing ideas from the Localism Act could close the gap between government and communities by giving residents the power to take ownership of key issues.
Take housing, for example. Across Nova Scotia, there’s a need for thoughtful, community-driven solutions. In the UK, neighbourhoods can decide what gets built and where through their development plans. Bringing this approach here could help Nova Scotians tackle housing needs while preserving the unique character of their communities.
The Act also has the potential to boost local democracy. People are more likely to stay involved when they have a direct role in shaping their surroundings. After this year’s elections, we need to develop and keep that energy alive. Community engagement will keep voters engaged long after election day.
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Of course, decision-making at the community level isn’t without its challenges. It requires strong leadership, accountability, and resources. Not every community will have the same capacity to take on new responsibilities. But these speed-bumps are worth addressing if it means creating a system that truly listens and responds to Nova Scotians.
At its core, the Localism Act is built on trust—the belief that people know what’s best for their communities. That kind of trust could transform Nova Scotia, fostering collaboration, innovation, and stronger connections between governments and the people they serve.
With the elections over, we can rethink how we address our province’s challenges. The Localism Act shows that communities thrive when they are given the tools to lead. Now, we need to ask: could this be the solution to building a stronger, more connected Nova Scotia?