Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Deputy Chief Executive.

The planning system in England has undergone a period of significant change over recent years. During this time multiple new types of applications have been introduced and most recently an increased focus is being placed on the importance of making timely decisions.

In light of the changes to the planning system and the increased emphasis placed on the speed and quality of planning decisions it is considered necessary to consider the need to make a number of changes to the scheme of delegation for the determination of planning applications. In parallel it is also considered appropriate to review the Planning Protocol to ensure that it reflects accurately long-standing custom and practice in how we exercise our planning powers.

The Scrutiny Committee is recommended to consider and comment on the proposed amendments in the attached documents.

Officer contact: Emma Curle on 0161 474 3542 or email: emma.curle@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) related to significant changes to the planning system in England over recent years. During this time multiple new types of applications had been introduced and most recently an increased focus was being placed on the importance of making timely decisions.

In light of the changes to the planning system and the increased emphasis placed on the speed and quality of planning decisions it was considered necessary to consider the need to make a number of changes to the scheme of delegation for the determination of planning applications. In parallel it was also considered appropriate to review the Planning Protocol to ensure that it reflected accurately long-standing custom and practice in how the council exercised its planning powers.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         It was reported that, under the proposals, householder planning applications would be fully delegated to officers, irrespective of the number of objections to the application.

·         Under the proposals, householder applications would not be subject to call-in. Where concerns were raised by residents to a councillor in respect of a householder application, councillors would have the option to raise those directly with the officer. There would be no option for a site visit for householder applications.

·         Development applications would be considered by an Area Committee where the council had received six or more representations which did not accord with the officer recommendation, or which had been called-in by two or more councillors.

·         Members commented on the potential risk that decision-making for applications not determined in a public forum might be perceived to lack transparency.  

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.