ROYAL assent for a new Government Act has paved the way to complete the modernisation of Stockton Borough Council.

A major consultation on town hall decision-making is under way in the wake of the passing of the Local Government Act.

The legislation gives people a bigger say in the way their communities are run.

It also allows them to choose how they want their councils to be run and gives local authorities new powers to work in partnership with council tax payers.

Also introduced are standards of behaviour for councillors and local government employees.

Describing the Act as one of the most important pieces of legislation ever on local government, Stockton council leader Councillor Bob Gibson said: "Stockton is already ahead of the game in our preparations for this Act.

"We've earned a reputation for anticipating and working with the Government's modernisation agenda, something acknowledged by the independent Improvement and Development Agency.

"We have piloted a leader and cabinet style of decision-making, since last November. Soon, we'll be consulting residents so they have a chance to influence these decisions and say how they want their council to make them.''

The Act also gives councils a role in promoting the economic, social and environmental well-being of their communities.

Coun Gibson said Stockton was one of the few councils to develop a community plan, setting the shape of future services delivered in partnership with business and voluntary organisations.

He said: "It's only by working with the community that we can establish priorities to meet their needs and aspirations.

"Taken with the Best Value policy, these measures will help us deliver efficient, high quality and responsive local services.''