Date:               4 June 2008
Embargo:       None

ESA respond to proposed Scottish planning appeal reforms

SESA has responded to the Scottish Government consultation proposing changes to the planning appeal process, specifically widening schemes of delegation, creating new local review bodies and streamlining the system of appeals.

The proposals emphasise that most applications classified as “local development” would be determined at local level with planning officers given more powers and appeals from their decisions to local review bodies. The Scottish Government has proposed that appeals against decisions made by planning committees will be made to Scottish Ministers.

The proposals would prohibit the variation of an application once an appeal has been lodged, limit opportunities for appellants to submit further material for consideration by Scottish Ministers and halve the period for appeal to Scottish Ministers who would also decide the means by which an appeal would be heard.

Responding to the proposals, SESA argued that pressure on Ministers’ resources instead be addressed by restricting the right of the appellant in the planning appeal process with appellants having the option to choose the most appropriate type of inquiry. SESA also expressed concern that reducing the timescale to lodge an appeal from six to three months would be insufficient time for any appellant to judge the implications of a refusal and to prepare a properly reasoned appeal.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Scottish Government Consultation Document http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2008/02/13104117/0 (now closed)