The Coalition Government’s recent proposals to change planning laws have caused a great deal of debate and concern.

As chairman of the Hertsmere Borough planning committee and executive member for planning, we understand people’s concern over this matter.

Planning is the one issue in local government where residents are fully engaged.

Whereas most full council meetings are sparsely attended, the planning committee often has a large attendance by concerned residents.

While the Government’s desire to simplify the planning laws is sensible, equally the concern that this will be a green light to overdevelopment is understandable.

Surely the way to ensure simplification, but also protect against inappropriate development, is for the local decision making over planning to be strengthened?

As councillors, we are answerable to our voters, as are our colleagues on the planning committee. If a council is too soft on development it will be punished by its voters.

Equally, if voters think there is a need for more housing, they can vote for candidates who want that.

The problem with the present system is that, even when decisions are made in a legal, local and democratic way, they are often overturned by the unelected, unaccountable planning inspectorate.

If the Government’s proposals genuinely strengthen local control over planning, they will improve the planning system and bring more accountability to local government.

Cllr Hannah David
planning committee chairman
Cllr Charles Goldstein
executive member for planning