§ Sir Hal MillerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has to improve the efficiency of the planning system in dealing with planning applications and appeals.
§ Mr. HowardThe Government want the planning system to be effective in its function of regulating the use of land in the public interest, and efficient in its operation so that it does not impose unwarranted delays on development. Many planning authorities are failing to deliver an efficient service. There is a clear need for reform of some aspects of the system, to ensure that it is better focused to deal with the more significant development proposals and that adequate resources are available to do a proper job.
My right hon. Friend has published today a consultation paper "Efficient Planning" setting out a range of proposals which would improve the operation of the planning system.
1188WThe Government believe that it is a sound principle that those who seek planning permission should meet the cost of considering their development proposals. The paper therefore sets out proposals for the introduction of fees for planning appeals, and for increased levels of planning application fees.
The paper also contains proposals for local planning authorities to be able to give general permissions for specified types of development, which could remove the requirement for planning applications; and for planning permission to be granted automatically for development by householders if the local planning authority had not issued its decision in eight weeks.
Other proposals include a power enabling local planning authorities to turn away repetitious planning applications for developments substantially the same as schemes already rejected on appeal. There are also a number of proposals for minor changes to planning legislation which would improve its operation.
Most of the measures proposed would require primary legislation. The overall effect of the proposals would be to reduce the burden of development control procedures, and increase the resources available to operate the system effectively.
I am inviting views on these proposals by 29 September. My right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Scotland and for Wales will be consulting about the introduction of similar measures.