Have a say on future ofplanning system

MEMBERS OF the public are being urged to have their say on the future of the planning system in England as the Government considers steps which it claims will streamline the process.

Proposals include simplified designations for land usage, including automatic permission in principle for development in some areas; greater use of digital technology in the planning process and a National Design Guide to ensure “high quality development” that reflects “local character and preferences”.

An inquiry by the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee will examine how well the proposed reforms would support the Government’s wider building strategy as well as ensuring high quality construction that is fit for purpose.

Other aspects to be considered include how well the new proposals provide ways for local people to have their say in the planning process, with one proposal being the end to the requirement for all planning notices to be published in local newspapers.

A number of Yorkshire MPs have written to Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick and submitted written questions, highlighting concerns about the impact for millions of people who would be excluded if notices were no longer printed. The News Media Association said it will mean many grassroots issues being decided without proper consultation and debate, while also hitting the finances of local newspapers struggling to stay afloat.

An online survey – available via committees. parliament. uk/ work/ 634/ the- future- of- theplanningsystem- in- england/ – closes tomorrow.