§ Mr. Nicholas BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will change responsibility for notification to adjoining owners of planning applications from the local authority to the applicant.
§ Mr. HowardNo. The present arrangements reflect the purpose of the planning system which is to regulate the development and use of land in the public interest. The extent of publicity for planning applications is best left to the discretion of the local planning authority, which can exercise their judgment in the light of local circumstances. A general requirement for applicants to notify owners of adjoining land would be an additional and unwarranted burden for applicants, and for local authorities in ensuring compliance.