MP’s bid to get residents a greater say in planning

Parliamentary debate on issue in House of Commons

LOUGHBOROUGH MP, Nicky Morgan, has taken her call for local communities to have a greater role in the planning process to the House of Commons when she led a parliamentary debate on the issue.

Mrs Morgan had been working to secure a debate in Westminster Hall after being contacted by a number of local residents; all of whom highlighted how they felt planning law fails to take into account the views of local communities .

During the debate Mrs Morgan Nicky highlighted three main issues – how the requirement for local planning authorities to have a five year land supply for housing can be thwarted by developers, how communities are often not kept informed about the different stages of a planning application and how poorly worded planning conditions can let communities down.

She pointed to planning issues raised with her by residents in Loughborough, Shepshed, Sileby, Burton on the Wolds and Barrow upon Soar.

Speaking after Mrs Morgan said: “The planning process must be fair, transparent and take into account the views of local people.

“Many residents understand the need for more housing but that is harder to accept if they feel their views have been excluded from the planning process and when new homes place strain on facilities and infrastructure it is vital that proper provision is made to ensure what communities need is put into place.

“As the government looks to renew and refresh the National Planning Policy Framework they must ensure steps are taken to allow the voices of local people and communities to be heard.”