Reforming Planning Committees

The Government could transfer decision-making power from Councillors to an un-elected planning officer on what applications are considered at committee. Conservation areas would not be protected. A Technical consultation here is open until 23rd July covering decision delegation, size and composition of planning committees and mandatory training. Two tiers of planning applications are proposed. For Tier A, “minor” developments and those up to 9 dwellings would be delegated to officers but in London that could be increased to 49 dwellings. A current Planning Working Paper Reforming Site Thresholds proposes a medium-sized category for 10 to 49 homes. London Forum members could discuss both papers with their Council and consider making responses to MHCLG with a copy to planning@londonforum.org.uk