Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to change planning law to enable a third party to appeal to the Secretary of State against a planning decision made by the local authority; and if he will make a statement. [102207]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Government have no current plans to introduce a right of appeal for third parties.
It is the responsibility of local planning authorities to act in the general public interest when determining planning applications. Local authorities must determine applications in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Such considerations can include views expressed by local residents and other third parties.
The scope for third parties to participate fully in the development control process has been increased in recent years, through the statutory requirements to consult on the preparation of the development plan and to publicise all planning applications.