§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps his Department takes to consult the construction and development industry and relevant professional advisers on the operation of circular 22/80;
(2) whether he is satisfied with the operation of circular 22/80.
§ Mr. WaldegraveCircular 22/80 contained two main messages: the need to secure a general speeding up of planning decisions, and the importance of ensuring that development is only prevented or restricted when this serves a clear planning purpose and the economic effects have been taken into account.
From time to time we receive representations about the application of policies outlined in circular 22/80, including representations from developers and from the construction industry. In the light of these, we believe that the main messages of the circular remain valid. In particular, there is still a need for greater efficiency in the handling of planning applications by local planning authorities. Certain aspects of the policies set out in the circular have since been reiterated—for example in circular 14/85 (development and employment) and in circular 31/85 (aesthetic control).