Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2000 gives a statutory right of access to all information held by public bodies, subject to certain exceptions. The Act is designed to make public bodies more open, accessible and accountable.
The Act provides the public with two new rights:
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a right to know what information public authorities hold
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a right of access to that information
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority is not covered by the FOI Act, but its Members have agreed to adopt the process. The Authority looks at any requests for information it receives to see if it is able to supply the information in line with FOI requirements.
Under FOI, anyone, anywhere, can ask for information about the Authority and its business by submitting a request in writing. Find out how to submit a request.
Where and how do I complain about access under the Freedom of Information Act 2000?
Any complaint about the manner in which Lee Valley Regional Park Authority has dealt with a request under the FOIA will be dealt with under the Authority’s complaints procedure.
Environmental Information
The Environmental Information Regulations (EIRs) 2004 give the public the right to access environmental information held by public authorities. Unlike the Freedom of Information Act a request under the EIRs does not have to be in writing, so requests can be made in person or over the phone.
Environmental information is divided into six main areas:
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Anything relating to air, water, soil, land and the animal and human populations
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Emissions and discharges, noise, energy, radiation, waste and other such substances
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Activities such as policies, plans, finances or anything likely to affect the state of the environment
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Reports, cost-benefit and economic analyses
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The state of human health and safety, contamination of the food chain
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Cultural sites and built structures (to the extent they may be affected by the state of the elements of the environment)
If we receive a request from a member of the public for environmental information, we are legally obliged to provide it, usually within 20 working days.
If we withhold the information requested as a result of one of the exceptions, we must explain why and give the relevant reasons for refusal. Find out how to submit a request.