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26 Jul 2001
Following the Government's announcement of a major overhaul of the planning
system, Hugh Ellis, Planning Campaigner for Friends of the Earth, said:
“Friends of the Earth welcomes the Government's review of the planning
system, but we are extremely concerned that the agenda of reform is
being driven by the private sector.
“The Minister stressed the importance of involving communities
but said little on how this was to be achieved. He must address
the issues of inclusion, democracy and accountability,which the current
system lacks. There is a real risk that in speeding up the process,
local communities will be increasingly isolated and marginalised.
“What we fear is a fast track system for major developments, such
as roads, nuclear power stations and incinerators, that rides roughshod
over public concerns, and causes long-term damage to the environment.”
NOTES FOR EDITORS
[1] Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Transport Local Government and the Regions announced a major review of planning at the Institute of Public Policy Research earlier today.
Contact details:
Friends of the Earth
26-28 Underwood St.
LONDON
N1 7JQ
Tel: 020 7490 1555
Fax: 020 7490 0881
Web: www.foe.co.uk/feedback.html
Media team
