Planning Process: Probity Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities
Charlotte Nichols
Main Page: Charlotte Nichols (Labour - Warrington North)Department Debates - View all Charlotte Nichols's debates with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities
Planning Process: Probity
Charlotte Nichols Excerpts(3 years, 10 months ago)
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Christopher Pincher
As I said in my opening remarks, planning is essentially a local matter. The vast majority of local planning decisions are made locally. Sometimes they are appealed against to the Planning Inspectorate, but only on a small number occasions will those applications come to a Secretary of State. I am very keen to ensure that the planning system is swift, transparent and reflects and adheres to local needs, and I shall make sure that my hon. Friend’s comments and concerns are properly reflected in all our considerations about planning processes.
Charlotte Nichols (Warrington North) (Lab)
Campaigners in Warrington North have been battling to save Peel Hall from development for over three decades. With planning law already weighted so heavily in favour of development, what assurances can the Minister give that the developer cannot simply make a substantial donation to the Conservative party to subvert the process and that residents will get the fair hearing they deserve and can have confidence in that process?
Christopher Pincher
The planning law in this country is very clear, as the hon. Lady knows. I suggest that she go and read it.