Public Engagement in Local Politics

Part of 2. Questions to the Minister for Housing and Local Government – in the Senedd at 3:37 pm on 16 December 2020.

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Photo of Mike Hedges Mike Hedges Labour 3:37, 16 December 2020

The one area where the public get engaged is planning applications. The big problem is that unpopular planning applications, such as houses of multiple occupation over the limits set by supplementary planning guidance are refused by the council but allowed by planning inspectors. Does the Minister agree that ending planning inspectors overruling councils' planning conditions and making failed applicants go to judicial review instead is the best way of improving public engagement and getting the confidence of the public?