In the UK, local authorities are responsible for providing a wide range of services to their residents, from waste collection and recycling to housing and education. This also includes providing services to businesses within their area. When a local authority fails to respond to a request or complaint from a resident or a business, it can be frustrating and even damaging to their quality of life or their business.
If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know that you have rights and can take action to hold the local authority accountable. We had recently taken action against a Local authority who failed to deal with our client’s application for planning. Our client had chased the local authority and even raised a complaint but nothing happened. We was then instructed to deal with this matter and within weeks of our involved we finally got a response.
Here are the steps you can take to win against a local authority that has failed to provide a response to your request or complaint.
Step 1: Follow up in writing
If you have made a request or complaint to your local authority and have not received a response, the first step is to follow up in writing. Send a letter or email to the local authority, detailing your original request or complaint and the date it was made, and asking for a response within a reasonable timeframe. Make sure you send it by recorded post and email.
Step 2: Escalate to a higher authority
If you still do not receive a response after following up in writing, the next step is to escalate your complaint to a higher authority. This may be a local councillor or member of parliament, or a regulatory body such as the Local Government Ombudsman. But before you do this step, it is always advisable that you try sending a reminder.
Step 3: Gather evidence
To build a strong case against the local authority, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible. This may include copies of your original request or complaint, any follow-up correspondence, and any relevant documentation or records.
Step 4: Consider legal action
This should be the last thing you consider to do. If your complaint is still not resolved after escalating to a higher authority, you may need to consider taking legal action. This may involve filing a complaint with a court or tribunal, or seeking the advice of a solicitor or legal professional.
Step 5: Be patient
Legal action can be a slow and complex process, so it is important to be patient and persistent. Keep following up with the local authority and your legal representative, and stay focused on the outcome you want to achieve.
Winning against a local authority that has failed to provide a response to your request or complaint can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. However, by following these steps and seeking the advice of legal professionals where necessary, you can hold the local authorities accountable and achieve a positive outcome for yourself and your community.
If you need our help then get in touch with us at hello@alison-law.co.uk You can also request a call back on ReviewSolicitors
