§ Mr. Edward DaveyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received on reform of the planning722W appeals process contained in DETR circular 05/200 relating to rights of third parties to see and comment on the submissions of others made to the Planning Inspectorate. [151607]
§ Ms Beverley HughesFive representations have been received.
Following public consultation streamlined statutory procedures for handling planning appeals—on which guidance is given in DETR Circular 5/2000—were introduced last year. These require third parties to submit their comments or statements of case to the Secretary of State on the same timescale as that for local planning authorities and appellants. Thus third parties have the opportunity at both planning application stage and at planning appeal stage to comment on the proposed development.
The operation of the new procedures is being monitored and we shall review them in the light of experience, taking account of representations received.