HC Deb 05 May 1970 vol 801 cc68-9W
52. Mr. Wiggin

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the average period which he requires to consider his inspector's report after a public inquiry.

Mr. Greenwood:

The average period between the inquiry and the decision on a planning appeal is currently 15 weeks.

Mr. Wiggin

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will take steps to give speedier decisions after public planning inquiries.

Mr. Greenwood:

The most direct way of speeding decisions is to transfer as many appeals as possible for decision by inspectors. On average, appeals decided by inspectors, over 40 per cent. of the total, are being dealt with within six weeks of the date of the inquiry, compared with 15 weeks for other cases. As I told my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Kirkdale (Mr. Dunn), on 7th April, I am considering extending the transfer of appeals to inspectors so that about 60 per cent. will be covered.—[Vol. 799, c. 222.]