Vale Council objects to Government’s proposed reforms to the planning system

Vale of the White Horse District Council has written to the Government objecting to many of its proposed reforms to the current planning system.

The Government’s proposed changes were outlined in the Planning for the Future white paper which sets out reforms.

The council sent a letter to Robert Jenrick MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government on 29 October detailing its concerns and objections to the proposals.

Cllr Neil Fawcett, cabinet member for strategic partnerships and place at the Vale said: “Whilst we agree that the white paper correctly identifies some legitimate failings in the current system, the proposed reforms are likely to make things worse and move things in the wrong direction.  A key concern is that the proposed changes would reduce or remove the right of residents to engage with planning applications near them.” 

Cllr Fawcett added: “Local communities must be in the driving seat on shaping the future of their communities. We need to see places delivered that are well designed, of a high quality and which address the climate challenges we face.”