Major changes to the planning system are being proposed. The changes are far reaching, and their stated aim is to speed up and simplify the planning process whilst at the same time giving greater opportunities for people to shape their local plans.
However, there will be less opportunity to object to proposals at application stage and we must be concerned that there will be a threat to local democracy.
These are ambitious plans and not easy to implement quickly.
There will be a huge learning process to go through for everyone and ESSA will play its part in keeping its residents informed and involved and representing our views to policy makers and our local planning department.