Why planning applications should still be published in local media – The Yorkshire Post says

IF the Government is sincere when it comes to localism and accountability, it will curtail its threat to limit the scrutiny of planning applications.
By YP Comment
Published 10th Nov 2020, 16:38 BST

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

The Government's proposed changes to the planning system are anti-democratic, The Yorkshire Post argues, as a new consultation ends.The Government's proposed changes to the planning system are anti-democratic, The Yorkshire Post argues, as a new consultation ends.
The Government's proposed changes to the planning system are anti-democratic, The Yorkshire Post argues, as a new consultation ends.

Not only will any imposition of the proposals, part of moves to encourage new developments, directly contradict devolution policy – but they’re also anti-democratic.

And, given this, it is imperative that as many people as possible register their opposition to the move by the end of Wednesday when the current consultation runs out. The publication of planning notices in local newspapers, the most trusted media of all, are fundamental when it comes to alerting people, and businesses, about new applications. They’re the foundations of local democracy and accountability.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

They also alert those who have not got the inclination – or access to computers – to monitor the websites of those town halls which do publish the necessary details in an accessible format (not all do). For the London Government’s benefit, these newspapers now command record print and digital readerships.

The Government wants to curtail the publication of planning applications in the future.The Government wants to curtail the publication of planning applications in the future.
The Government wants to curtail the publication of planning applications in the future.

And such advertisements underpin the placing of formal yellow notices on lamp posts close to affected areas – another statutory service that Ministers will discard if they get their way. This should not be about Whitehall. It should be for councils to decide how best to liaise with their communities.

After all, all applicants have to pay a fee when they submit plans – and part of this should still fund the cost of public consultations. If not, the resulting planning disputes risk diminishing the aesthetic appeal of neighbourhoods – and also the public finances.

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click here to subscribe.

Related topics:GovernmentYorkshire PostLondonYorkshire

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.