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FOE Sounds Caution on Planning Overhaul
26 July 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.
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
