§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what planning advice is given to local planning authorities concerning applications for gun clubs; and if he will make a statement. [21707]
§ Sir Paul BeresfordThe express planning permission of the local authority is required for any development proposal to change the use of a building to use for the purposes of a gun club or to erect a new building. Other land, not in the curtilage of a building, may be used for those purposes for not more than 28 days in a calendar year without express planning permission. Planning applications must be publicised so that local views can be taken into account before decisions are taken. My Department does not issue planning advice specifically on gun clubs. Gun clubs in England and Wales are subject to a licensing regime, independent of the planning legislation, operated by my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary.