Planning is a matter for
local councils and your councillors are the ones who will make the decision
whether to approve or turn down applications but, quite reasonably, people also
turn to their MPs, when a particularly contentious application is submitted;
such is the case with proposals for Top Field in Barton.
I have received scores of
objections from local residents; understandably so as the development is
clearly not suitable for the site, at least in its present form. It’s important
when framing objections that it must be based on ‘material planning
considerations.’ What is or isn’t such a consideration can be found on many
websites such as http://www.rtpi.org.uk/media/686895/Material-Planning-Considerations.pdf
As much as we all value ‘the
view’ and want to maintain the value of our house but these are not relevant
when applications are determined.
The Top Field development
is unsuitable for a number of reasons; in particular access. As the Member of
Parliament I pass on all representations I receive to the local authority and
lobby them but they are the decision makers. It’s one of the most important
representative roles that councillors have and one that can have a major impact
on shaping the local area. I spent many years as a councillor and use to enjoy
dealing with planning matters; it’s a real opportunity to get involved with the
local community.
It’s one of the anomalies
of planning legislation that applicants have the right of appeal but objectors
don’t. Last year I introduced a 10 Minute Rule Bill into the House of Commons
that would have given objectors this right in certain circumstances. I
recognise that the system would very quickly grind to a halt if you could
appeal every decision to extend a garage or add a conservatory but criteria
could be set that preclude these sort of proposals. For example for major
developments of say 100 dwellings or more or when the town or parish council
has objected.
10 Minute Rule Bills are
a way of highlighting an issue and starting a debate about an issue, they
rarely become law. That said it can serve to raise an issue up the political
agenda and its one that has considerable support in Parliament, though
governments of all colours have refused to consider it. I can see why since
appeals cause delays and for business developments that can be a major problem
but I’m sure it’s possible to create a system that can deal quickly with
applications and ensure that all sides have the opportunity of putting their
case and that deliver speedy decisions.
I’ll keep pressing the
case.
