Welsh environment minister Jane Davidson has announced a review of the planning application process in the country. The announcement came as the administration pledged some £1.75m extra funding for all 25 Welsh planning authorities. This will be divided equally between each one and will translate into £70,000 for funding local services and £20,000 towards the development of cross-Wales initiatives.
Ms Davidson said: “I want to see improvements to streamline the planning application process. We want to make sure the planning system is ready to support the economic upturn when it comes. Our evidence shows between 85 and 90 per cent of applications are in fact approved. However, our review will look to identify any blockages and potential areas of improvement. The planning system must be efficient, delivering decisions which are open, fair, consistent and transparent. It is essential that the system inspires public and business confidence, delivering quality development and places, particularly in light of challenging economic circumstances.”
http://wales.gov.uk/news/latest/090602planningreview/?lang=en
