§ 1. Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about the proposed unified development plans; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister for Water and Planning (Mr. Michael Howard)The arrangements for the preparation of unitary development plans, including my right hon. Friend's strategic guidance, are well advanced. Responses are still being received to the draft strategic guidance for Greater Manchester.
§ Mr. ThurnhamDoes my hon. and learned Friend agree that it is much better if planning decisions are made locally whenever possible, and that the Government's record is much better than that of the Labour Government in this respect? Does he also agree that when unified development plans are in place there should be far fewer appeals to the Secretary of State?
§ Mr. HowardUnitary development plans should certainly improve matters further, and I expect them to lead to a much greater say for local people in the taking of planning decisions.
§ Mr. ConwayDoes my hon. and learned Friend agree that local plans have particular significance for towns of historic importance—of which Shrewsbury is one, being among the top dozen on the Department's list of towns of specific importance? Shrewsbury, like the city of Durham is surrounded on three sides by a river and thus has particular planning difficulties, so the inspectors' recommendations to my right hon. Friend in respect of local plans are particularly important and should receive far greater credence.
§ Mr. HowardMy hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the importance of historic towns such as Shrewsbury. The local plan provides the framework for giving local people a greater say in these matters. The sooner all local planning authorities make progress in the preparation of these plans, the greater their voice will be.