Parish and Town Councillors' Role in Planning
Whilst
there has always been some control over development, exercised by the tribal
chief, Lord of the Manor or, ultimately, the Monarch, the 'Planning System' as
we know it was created following World War II. Although an Englishman's home
might be his castle, we acknowledge that what we do affects our neighbours. The
'Planning System' gives neighbours and the wider community a modifying influence
and sometimes, a veto on what we do.
Gradually
the purpose of the ‘Planning System’ has evolved in attempting to ensure
that we make the best use of land, achieve a balance between land for
recreation, houses, jobs and infrastructure. This, whilst maintaining balanced
communities and provide a decent environment for all.
A
Parish or Town Councillor is a member of a body that is a ‘statutory
consultee’ – who has a right to be heard in the decision making process.
That right is not theirs as an individual, but theirs on behalf of the
electorate. But, with that right comes a responsibility. They have a duty to be
properly informed before making decisions, to be aware of their locality and to
look after the best interests of their residents.
They
should comment on planning applications presented to them, in the interest of
their community. They should suggest appropriate conditions to be attached to
approvals, to protect the interests of third parties. To do this, they should
understand local planning processes and keep themselves informed about planning
legislation, guidance, strategies, polices and best practice guidelines. They
are the eyes and ears of the Local Planning Authority and have a role in the
reporting of unauthorised development, non-compliance with conditions and
passing on relevant information. They are a voice of the people and should be
heard in all forums.
As
a member of the Council, on the Planning Committee, they are expected to learn
about a hundred and one different aspects of ‘Planning’, from amenities to
zoology and AONB’s to ZEA’s. However, nobody expects anyone to know
everything. With the advent of the Internet there are thousands of places to
search for help and information, including:
Training
in Planning for Councillors, ODPM
www.odpm.gov.uk
Planning:
A Guide for Householders
www.odpm.gov.uk
Planning:
A Guide for Farmers
www.odpm.gov.uk
Planning
Permissions, A Guide for Business
www.odpm.gov.uk
Responding
to Planning Applications
www.cpre.org.uk