§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the average length of time is for processing planning applications in Northern Ireland. [152580]
§ Angela SmithThe average time taken by the Department of the Environment's Planning Service to issue a final decision in respect of planning applications in Northern Ireland over the last three previous years is as follows:
Average time in Northern Ireland Year 2000–01 2001–02 2002–03 Total average days 139 134 137 Total average weeks 20 19 20
§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the average time is for a planning appeal hearing to take place in Northern Ireland after an application for an appeal has been lodged. [152581]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyAs the Planning Appeals Commission is a tribunal Non-Departmental Public Body, I have asked the Chief Commissioner to write to the hon. Gentleman directly in connection with the information requested.
§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the average time taken by his Department was to respond to letters of objection from people regarding planning applications in 2003. [152594]
§ Angela SmithIt is Planning Service's policy to acknowledge all letters of objection within three working days, and where specific questions are raised, it is the policy to issue a reply within 15 working days.
However, it is often difficult to deal with specific questions at an early stage of the processing of an application, as detailed consideration will not have taken place by the divisional planning office and consultee replies will not have been received. More substantive replies can issue at a later stage. In addition, all those who object to planning applications are informed in writing of the final decision and the reasons for that decision.