Archived press release

People power forces Government rethink on planning proposals

18 July 2002

John Prescott’s announcement on the reform of the planning system is a victory for the vocal campaign led by Friends of the Earth, which was determined to uphold rights and democracy in the planning system.

Today’s announcement signalled the end of damaging proposals to steamroll major infrastructure projects through the planning process by stripping away the public's right to object. The announcement also indicated a clear commitment to restore the public’s right to be heard at local plan inquiries, where vital decisions on the future of communities are made.

But in launching today’s Planning Paper, John Prescott continued to support Business Planning Zones, areas which Councils can designate where no planning controls will apply. There is no indication of the scale of the number of these zones but some reports indicate that the Treasury would like more than two thousand (three for every local authority area in England). The proposals also strip away county structure plans, giving more power to regional planning bodies to decide issues such as the number of new houses required. At present there are no rights to be heard on regional planning guidance and objectors must wait to be invited. As a result regional planning will be unfair and unaccountable.

John Prescott is also expected to announce the expansion of affordable homes in the South East. Friends of the Earth support the need for more affordable housing but they need to be in the right location. The South East economy is already overheating, and a serious question remains as to whether these proposals will detract from the quality of life of people in the South East, worsen regional inequalities and widen the gap between the south and other regions.

Commenting, Friends of the Earth Planning Campaigner Hugh Ellis said:

"The proposals in last years Green Paper were a developer’s charter, handing power only to those with property interests. This new announcement puts back the public’s minimal rights to participate in planning, but we still have strong concerns about impact of Business Planning Zones.

The Treasury would like to see vast swathes of England classified as Business Planning Zones, where there is no control over development. This would have a devastating effect on our quality of life and on the natural environment. Business does very well out of the planning system. The real need is to engage communities in the planning process. We hope this announcement marks the Government’s commitment to a radical and inclusive planning system that will deliver sustainable development, not a blueprint for tarmacing the South East and other regions. Government must never again listen to the lone voice of the CBI and private sector, who do not represent the overwhelming view of the public."

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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust