Commentary Introduction Section 121 - Multi-area agreements
270.This section defines a multi-area agreement.
271.Subsection (2) explains that a multi-area agreement is a document specifying improvement targets for a geographic area for which there are two or more local authorities. Subsection (3) provides that this area can be non-contiguous so that it may, for example, cover the area of two local authorities which are separated by the area of a third local authority which is not to be part of the multi-area agreement.
272.Subsection (4) defines an improvement target as a target for improvement in the economic, social or environmental well-being of the area or part of the area covered by the multi-area agreement. For example, an improvement target might specify an improvement to be achieved in the whole of the area covered by the agreement, or it might apply only to specific ward(s) in the area. The target must also ‘relate’ to a local authority for the area, a partner authority, or another person acting, or having functions exercisable, in the area.
273.Subsection (5) provides that for an improvement target to relate to an individual or body, that individual or body must be able to contribute to the target being achieved through its actions and they must have agreed that the target should apply to them. Where an individual or body can have no impact on the achievement of a target through its actions and/or has not agreed to the target it will not relate to them and they will not be required to have regard to it.
274.Subsection (6) stipulates that an individual or body is taken to have consented to a target applying to it if it has agreed to the target (or any subsequent change to it) being specified in the multi-area agreement. The authority preparing the multi-area agreement (“the responsible authority”) will therefore have consented to all targets as in drawing up the agreement it will have agreed to the inclusion of those targets.