39.This section provides a statutory basis for the Community Planning process and relates to local authorities (as defined in section 61(c)(ii)).
40.Subsection (1) describes the Community Planning process as one in which the public services provided in a local authority area must be planned and provided after consultation with community bodies and other public bodies responsible for providing those services, and with the on-going co-operation among those bodies. This section requires local authorities to initiate maintain and facilitate such a process in their area and they have responsibility to determine the means of consultation and co-operation.
41.In subsection (2) local authorities are further required to invite and encourage all other public bodies in their area, and appropriate community bodies, to participate in Community Planning.
42.Subsection (3)makes provision where two or more local authorities jointly deliver a service. Where such an approach is taken, the local authorities involved may fulfil their duty of Community Planning jointly.