The Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 was passed on 30 November 2000. It gives a general right of access to all types of "recorded" information held by public authorities. The act allows for certain exemptions from that right and also puts a number of obligations on public authorities.

Individuals already have the right to access information about themselves under the Data Protection Act 1998. From January 2005 the Freedom of Information Act expanded on these rights, allowing access to all types of information held by public authorities, whether personal or not. The Act will be enforced by the Information Commissioner.

West Wiltshire District Council has produced a Publications Scheme to provide a guide on the information which is available to the public now.

The Publications Scheme is split into 12 groups of information (called classes) which are then split down by subject headings. Each class and subject heading deals with one aspect of the services we provide and contains a description of types of documents rather than a list of individual documents.

To submit a freedom of information request by email use this address. foi@westwiltshire.gov.uk