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17 Dec 2001
Friends of the Earth is appalled at Government plans to fast-track
the planning system for major infrastructure projects, published today,
which undermines local democracy and environmental protection. The list
of projects to be 'approved by Parliament' and not open to question
at a public inquiry includes chemical plants, quarries, open-cast coal
mines and dual-carriageways over 30km, as well as nuclear facilities,
runways and ports. Friends of the Earth lawyers will now closely study
the proposals to ensure they comply with human rights and environmental
protection legislation.
Under Government proposals, Parliament will make the decision on a project and any local inquiry will take “as read the principle of, need for and location.” Friends of the Earth says this will be disastrous for the environment and citizens' rights.
Hugh Ellis, Planning Campaigner at Friends of the Earth said:
“We are stunned by the scope of this announcement. The Government
has completely caved-in to industry. Under these disastrous proposals
local peoples rights to object to chemical plants, quarries and open-cast
coal mines has been severely undermined. Our lawyers will examine these
details very closely.
“These plans are a nightmare for local democracy and the environment. Parliament will decide whether a community gets an airport, port or road in their neighbourhood. Local people will only have a say on smaller issues - such as what colour to paint the gates at their new nuclear power station.”
The Government proposals can be found at www.planning.dtlr.gov.uk/consult/majinfra/index.htm
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
