ACS Calls for Strong Planning System
17 Aug 2007
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), the campaigning voice of over 33,000 local shops, has called for a strong, well resourced and transparent planning system that gives local communities the opportunity to have their say in planning decisions.
In response to the Department for Community and Local Government’s (DCLG) Planning White Paper ACS has stressed the importance of a planning system that puts control in the hands of local people and businesses. ACS has also reiterated its concerns at the replacement of the ‘need’ test for new out-of-town developments.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “This White Paper is an opportunity to de-mystify the planning process and make sure that communities, including local businesses, are at the heart of planning decisions. Local people are in the best position to judge what is right or wrong for their area and need to have the ability to say ‘no’ where a development isn’t suitable.”
The submission also highlights the resource problems faced by local authorities. James Lowman continued: “We need to see greater resources for planners to make sure they can properly assess the effect of applications and the DCLG should take on our suggestion to introduce regional groups of specially trained planners who have the right skills to tackle complex planning applications for new retail developments. Only then will planning authorities be able to draw on the same expertise available to the major retail developers.
“It is also important that the way appeal costs are awarded is changed. Currently the threat of an appeal from a supermarket can be enough to force an application through because it could bankrupt the local authority if they lose. Instead the costs should be borne by those appealing, as they have the most to gain.”
ACS has also responded to the Government’s proposal to replace the ‘need’ test for new retail development by calling for a robust test that is rigorously enforced and takes into account the economic, social and environmental impacts of a new out-of-town supermarket proposal.
James Lowman added: “We are continuing to make clear to the DCLG how important the ‘need’ test is and that any replacement must be just as robust to ensure there are economically successful, socially diverse, inclusive and environmentally friendly town centres.”
Contact:
Shane Brennan Public Affairs and Communications Manager
ACS
01252 515001 / 07921 372978
Rachel Lawson Communications Co-ordinator
ACS
01252 515001
Michael Saxton Grappa
020 7602 9222
Notes to Editors:
1. ACS is the convenience store champion, helping local shops thrive through lobbying, insight, information and commercial services.
In response to the Department for Community and Local Government’s (DCLG) Planning White Paper ACS has stressed the importance of a planning system that puts control in the hands of local people and businesses. ACS has also reiterated its concerns at the replacement of the ‘need’ test for new out-of-town developments.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “This White Paper is an opportunity to de-mystify the planning process and make sure that communities, including local businesses, are at the heart of planning decisions. Local people are in the best position to judge what is right or wrong for their area and need to have the ability to say ‘no’ where a development isn’t suitable.”
The submission also highlights the resource problems faced by local authorities. James Lowman continued: “We need to see greater resources for planners to make sure they can properly assess the effect of applications and the DCLG should take on our suggestion to introduce regional groups of specially trained planners who have the right skills to tackle complex planning applications for new retail developments. Only then will planning authorities be able to draw on the same expertise available to the major retail developers.
“It is also important that the way appeal costs are awarded is changed. Currently the threat of an appeal from a supermarket can be enough to force an application through because it could bankrupt the local authority if they lose. Instead the costs should be borne by those appealing, as they have the most to gain.”
ACS has also responded to the Government’s proposal to replace the ‘need’ test for new retail development by calling for a robust test that is rigorously enforced and takes into account the economic, social and environmental impacts of a new out-of-town supermarket proposal.
James Lowman added: “We are continuing to make clear to the DCLG how important the ‘need’ test is and that any replacement must be just as robust to ensure there are economically successful, socially diverse, inclusive and environmentally friendly town centres.”
Contact:
Shane Brennan Public Affairs and Communications Manager
ACS
01252 515001 / 07921 372978
Rachel Lawson Communications Co-ordinator
ACS
01252 515001
Michael Saxton Grappa
020 7602 9222
Notes to Editors:
1. ACS is the convenience store champion, helping local shops thrive through lobbying, insight, information and commercial services.