URL: https://democracy.ribblevalley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1457

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content:   The Director of Economic Development and Planning submitted a report seeking confirmation as to whether Committee wished to respond to a statutory consultation on the draft Regulations and guidance underpinning the Government’s planning committee reforms arising from the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025.   Members were reminded that, in 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) had published a paper on modernising planning committees. The proposals included the introduction of a national scheme of delegation, the creation of smaller, targeted planning committees for strategic development, and a mandatory training requirement for planning committee members. It was noted that the Council had responded to this paper in January 2025.   On 26 March 2026, MHCLG published a statutory consultation entitled Planning committee reform: statutory consultation on draft Regulations and guidance. Members noted that the Government proposed to bring forward the Regulations and statutory guidance relating to the national scheme of delegation and the size of planning committees, with the intention that the reforms would be implemented by the end of September 2026. The report set out details of the draft Regulations and draft guidance.   It was further noted that, on the same date, a new statutory instrument was introduced requiring local planning authorities to notify the Secretary of State where they intended to refuse planning applications for 150 dwellings or more.   The consultation sought views on the draft Regulations, the proposed approach to phased reserved matters applications, and the draft statutory guidance.   Members discussed the proposals in detail and expressed strong concern about the reforms. The majority of Members considered that the proposals would undermine local democratic accountability by significantly reducing the role of elected members in planning decisions, limiting opportunities for debate, and weakening residents’ ability to engage with the planning process. Particular concern was raised that increased delegation would restrict the ability to bring contentious or locally sensitive applications before Committee.   Members also highlighted the potential negative impact on public confidence in the planning system, the relationship between councillors, officers, and residents, and the additional pressure that could be placed on planning officers. While it was acknowledged that the reforms appeared to be aimed at authorities with high levels of call?ins, Members considered that the Council’s existing arrangements operated effectively and without undue delay.   There was broad agreement that the Council should submit a clear and strong objection to the consultation, reflecting opposition to the principles underpinning the draft Regulations and guidance.   RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:   Note the changes proposed and approve the submission of responses to consultation questions one and three by the Director of Economic Development and Planning, following consultation with the Chairman.      

Date of Decision: April 16, 2026