The ENGLISH DEVOLUTION AND COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT ACT 2026 amongst other matters (1) introduces STRATEGIC AUTHORITIES across England, which will areas and powers of COMPETENCE and to which powers will be transferred, (2) designates the GLA, Combined Authorities and Combined County Authorities as Strategic Authorities, (3) enables Strategic Authorities to call in strategically important developments and prepare Mayoral Development Orders, (4) promote a move away from two tier areas and towards UNITARY  STRUCTURES, (5) gives new powers to MAYORS, and returns to the Supplementary Voting System for Mayoral Elections, (6) requires the establishment of EFFECTIVE NEIGHBOURHOOD GOVERNANCE, (7) establishes the LOCAL AUDIT Office and a new framework for local auditors, and (8) introduces a COMMUNITY RIGHT TO BUY ASSETS OF COMMUNITY VALUE.

The State Opening of Parliament and the King’s Speech are scheduled for 13 May 2026. Seven Public Bills  are being carried over from the previous Session. These include the Representation of the People Bill, the Courts and Tribunal Bill, and the Public Office ( Accountability ) Bill.

Key provisions of the PENSION SCHEMES ACT 2026 cover INVESTMENT and GOVERNANCE in the LGPS. Details will be set in Regulations yet to be consulted upon and made. LGPS ASSETS will be consolidated into POOLS to be managed by FCA regulated Managers.

On 29 April 20226 Royal Assent has been given to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill and the Pension Schemes Bill.

The House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee seeks submissions by 5 June 2026 on FISCAL DEVOLUTION IN ENGLAND, its DISTRIBUTIONAL CONSEQUENCES, and the GOVERNANCE ARRANGEMENTS needed as more powers are devolved to local areas.