§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to publish the Planning Inspectorate's Annual Report and Accounts for 1998–99. [93697]
§ Mr. CabornThe Planning Inspectorate's Annual Report and Accounts for 1998–99 was published yesterday. Copies have been placed in the Library.
Overall, the Inspectorate met seven out of 10 targets set for its work in England. Handling times for hearing and inquiry cases, although much improved, missed the target. For inquiries, this is partly due to an increase in refusals by parties of dates offered by the Inspectorate. It is important that all parties co-operate and observe the deadlines set to enable the Inspectorate to deliver further improvements in performance.
The unit cost for written representation cases has increased. This is mainly due to a programme of investment in IT—upgrading PCs, and developing systems to improve performance and customer service. The Inspectorate continues to meet its efficiency target.
The Inspectorate has also maintained the programme of development plan inquiries to a high standard, helping to create greater certainty for all involved in the planning process as more areas are covered by up to date development plans.
The Inspectorate's quality target was met and exceeded, with reduced numbers of justified complaints against decisions issued. Surveys continued to show that its decisions are widely respected. It has also produced an
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