Quiz candidates on planning rules
Political editor Supplements editor Business editor You report on various planning issues, especially with the review by each district council in Kent of its Local Plan and the difficulties communities have in getting local views considered properly.
These include the development of green fields, ignoring existing road congestion issues, and a feeling that community facilities do not keep pace with the large number of houses the government requires in each area.
Often residents blame their local council for “bad” decisions but more often than not they are following government rules which lead them to overrule local opinions.
Can I urge people to question the candidates for all the parties and the people who call door-to-door on their behalf about how people can have a real say in how their areas develop.
Can I suggest four real problems that come up again and again: What’s On reporter KoL editor
1. Brownfield sites should be developed first but this policy was dropped from the rules. It should be re-instated.
2. While I support the retention of the Greenbelt and the protection of the North Downs Area of Natural Beauty, the ordinary countryside is also important. KoL news editor KoL assistant news editor
It should be specifically recognised in the Plan review process.
3. Planning Inspectors are told to allow permission where road congestion already exists unless it is severe.
So KCC hardly ever objects to any planning applications on highway grounds,yet people are always objecting on that basis. This test should be defined.
4. Local designations of Conservation Areas are not mentioned in the government advice about reviewing local plans.
We do need more homes, and truly affordable ones at that including social renting, but a thorough review of current rules is needed. This is the responsibility of MPs so now is the time to hold them to account. David Thornewell Chairman, East Malling and Larkfield Parish Council, Betjeman Close, Larkfield