Spatial Planning & Policy Committee 051110

Date: 5/11/2010

EXTRACT:

Present: 

Apologies for absence:

Peter Yates (Herefordshire), Dave Carter (Birmingham), Phil Abbott (Sheffield), Roger Lawes (Retired), Peter Warner (Great Yarmouth Council), John Silvester (John Silvester Assoc), Darren Richards (London Borough Sutton)

1.    Minutes of the meeting of 05 September 2010 and matters arising

The minutes were accepted as a true and correct record and there were no matters arising.

2.    RSS Revocation - feedback from DCLG Committee Inquiry

Catriona recently attended the Inquiry and introduced this item. Catriona advised that ADEPT & RTPI had presented overviews to the Inquiry regarding post RSS strategic planning. The strong message presented to the Inquiry was that planners are part of the solution and not the problem. Unfortunately, it is perceived that a number of MPs blame planners for delays and the bureaucracy surrounding planning.

Strong message presented to Inquiry that we need new strategic planning arrangements that link into the current and emerging National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) + fits in with local delivery. The 'strategic gap' needs to be addressed. Recent Local Growth White paper hinted at LEP involvement in 'strategic planning' but what of accountability? Would LEPs not be open to same criticism as former Regional Assemblies? What about those parts of the county not in a LEP?

To download the notes in full click here