Introduction to the planning system for elected members

In this presentation … Focus on the specific role of elected members in the planning system Cover the main elements of the system -development plans -development management 2

Overview of the planning system 32 local authorities and 2 national park authorities are responsible for: - preparing development plans -deciding applications for planning permission -enforcing planning controls Significant recent reforms – elected members have important role in delivering change 3

Why plan? The planning system shapes our environment and influences many aspects of the way we live It determines how land is used, how communities take shape and how new developments look and work It is about balancing competing demands to make sure land is used and developed in the long-term interests of the public 4

Role of Elected Members You will be involved in planning matters at some stage as a ward member representing the interests of constituents You may also be involved in a specialist role on a planning committee or a local review body Code of Conduct emphasises the need for active participation and engagement to inform decision- making 5

Code of Conduct Provides a framework for your decision making as an elected member Supports engagement with constituents and others But … planning can be contentious Public perception is the most important factor Declare potential conflicts of interest 6

Development Plans Guide the future use of land and the appearance of cities, towns and rural areas Legal requirement to prepare a Local Development Plan for all areas and update it every 5 years In the 4 largest city regions authorities also prepare a Strategic Development Plan Plans are supported by Supplementary Guidance 7

Development Plans The law requires decisions on planning applications be made in accordance with the plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise You should have a high level of involvement in the preparation of the plan for your area 8

Development Management Legislation defines what development activities require planning permission Applications for different sizes of development are dealt with in different ways Two types of consent – permission in principle and full planning permission Permission can be granted, granted subject to conditions or refused 9

Role of Elected Members Some applications are decided by officers, some are decided at committee Scheme of Delegation is unique to each authority As a member of the planning committee you will need to consider the information which is presented and make decisions in keeping with the development plan 10

Material Considerations A planning issue which is relevant to the application Can include: -council policies -comments by the public and organisations -the effect of the development on the environment Some things are not material considerations e.g. loss of view or effect on property prices 11

Code of Conduct - Applications You should listen to and engage with those who have an interest in planning matters You should feel free to engage with applicants, agents, objectors or others As a ward member, you can support or oppose an application Before the committee meeting, as a member of the planning committee you must not express any opinion that could be interpreted as supporting or opposing an application 12

Appeals & Local Review If an application is decided by officers, the applicant can have the decision reviewed by the Local Review Body LRBs consist of at least three elected members from the authority All other appeals are made to Scottish Ministers 13

In conclusion … Use the Code of Conduct Be aware of probity issues Engage with communities and other interested parties Work with planning officers to make your council’s planning service the best it can be 14