The Cabinet considered a report of the Deputy Chief Executive and Executive Director (Growth & Housing) on the proposed changes to the planning system set out in the ‘White Paper Planning for the Future’ and the implications of these for planning in Southend.

Resolved:-

1.    That the comments on the ‘Planning for the Future’ White Paper and associated consultation on planning matters set out in the submitted report and appendices (Appendices 1 and 2) form the basis of the Council’s formal response to Government in respect to these consultations.

2.    That the Deputy Chief Executive and Executive Director (Growth & Housing) be authorised, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Planning, to finalise the Council’s detailed response to the Government’s consultation.

Reason for decision:

To ensure that the Council provides a fully considered response to these wide ranging and significant changes to the current planning system in England that takes into account the implications for planning and development, climate change adaptation and mitigation and equity in Southend.

Other options:

The proposals set out in the Planning White Paper will radically alter the current planning system in England.  Not setting out the Council’s concerns with the proposed changes would miss an opportunity to influence the design of the new system in a way that would benefit the Borough. 

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: Place Scrutiny Committee

Executive Member: Cllr Mulroney