HC Deb 26 October 1988 vol 139 c234W
Mr. Burns

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list the amount of money awarded to appellants arising from successful planning appeals to his Department, against Chelmsford borough council, in each of the last five financial years and during the current financial year; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Chope

In making awards of costs to parties in planning proceedings, my right hon. Friend and planning inspectors are concerned with whether another party's behaviour has caused the applicant for an award to incur costs unreasonably. Determinations are not given in cash amounts and it is for the parties to negotiate about the sum payable after any award has been made. Consequently, I regret that although the council should have the information requested, it is not available to the Department.