Freedom of information and Environmental Information Regulations
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) was implemented in January 2005 at the same time as the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR), giving the public the right to access all of the information held by public authorities, although there are a few Exemptions (FOI) and Exceptions (EIR) that allow the council to legitimately withhold information under certain circumstances. For full details on exemptions and exceptions go to the Information Commissioner's website.
The Act also requires public authorities to produce a guide to the information it holds known as a publication scheme, which details the types of information held by the authority.
The publication scheme facilitates the proactive release of information and supports the council's commitment to the provision of greater openness and transparency. It is recommended that prior to making a request, to check the publication scheme first to see if the information you seek is already in the public domain. As well as the publication scheme, information can also be found on the council's Open Data page and also its monthly Disclosure Log.
Any queries in relation to Freedom of Information or Environmental Information Regulations please either telephone 01271 388231 or email: legalservices@northdevon.gov.uk
Making a request
- Make a FOI request via our electronic online form
- Making a request by emailing legalservices@northdevon.gov.uk
- Schedule of fees and charges
- ICO Guide to Freedom of Information
Whilst we encourage requests to made via the webform facility, it is not mandatory and so if you would prefer to submit your request by email, please send to legalservices@northdevon.gov.uk.
This email address can also be used should you have any queries with submitting a request. Alternatively, if you wish to make an enquiry by phone, please telephone 01271 388231
Postal requests can be sent to:
Freedom of Information Officer and Paralegal
Legal Services
North Devon Council
PO Box 379
Barnstaple
EX32 2GR
Please note that you may experience a delay in receiving your acknowledgement if you make a request by post due to hybrid working and so we encourage requests either via the webform or email wherever possible to ensure your request is logged and actioned as soon as it is received into the Council.
Statistics
We collect quarterly statistics on FOI and EIR requests in line with Ministry of Justice guidance.
Internal reviews
If you are dissatisfied with the handling of a request that we have responded to, you have the right to request an internal review which should be received within two months from the date of the response letter. Internal Review requests can be e-mailed to legalservices@northdevon.gov.uk or made in writing.
If you are not content with the outcome of an Internal Review, you also have the right to apply to the Information Commissioner (ICO) for a decision.
Further information on freedom of information can be found at the Information Commissioner's Office website.