Implicit within this is the need for consultation with all stakeholders, including the public, and to increase the public knowledge of the planning process. Local environment Noise, poor air quality, litter, graffiti, vandalism and vacant properties may be symptoms of wider problems and can promote a spiral of degradation, acting as a barrier to urban renaissance and business investment. Local authorities can enhance quality of life and support local employment by good local management, improving open space and wildlife habitats, using trees and forestry, and reinforcing local distinctiveness and heritage. Under the Best Value initiative, local authorities in England and Wales will need to report annually on their performances in delivering services, including progress in dealing with problems such as vandalism, graffiti, litter and noise. Housing Decent, energy efficient homes contribute to social cohesion, improved health, and better use of fossil fuels and other resources.
Housing plays a key role in urban renewal and local regeneration.
This will enable local authorities to tackle social housing in poor condition and invest to meet housing needs. There is an increased emphasis on local decision making based on assessments of local needs for all forms of housing, and on long-term local housing strategies drawn up by authorities in partnership with communities. Local housing strategies should look at problems of poor condition and social exclusion in existing stock, and the scope for making better use of empty or under-utilised homes, as well as the need for new housing. They should set housing in wider contexts which support a range of economic, social and environmental objectives such as regeneration and energy efficiency measures. Transport Air pollution from traffic damages health.