The quality of Bedford Borough Council’s planning decisions means that it is “well below” the government’s maximum limit for underperformance, a meeting heard.
The council’s Planning Committee heard yesterday (Monday, 22 January) that the government monitors local authorities on the quality of decisions made by them on planning applications.
This is measured by the percentage of planning decisions (major and non-major categories) that are overturned at appeal.
If more than 10 per cent are overturned (within either category) then the government may designate the authority as underperforming for that category.
This can take planning decision-making powers away from the authority as applicants can then apply directly to the Planning Inspectorate.
2.4 per cent of major appeal decisions overturned
Ian Johnson, manager for heritage and planning compliance, said: “The current published figures up to March 2022 show 2.4 per cent of our major application decisions being overturned at appeal, which is well below the 10 per cent limit.”
A report presented to the committee said the equivalent figure for non-major applications is 1.2 per cent.
“The government has started to enforce special measures and have placed Fareham and Chorley councils into special measures,” Mr Johnson said.
“Their figures were 20 per cent and 18 per cent respectively, so well above the 10 per cent threshold.
“There are a further five councils who have failed the 10 per cent limit but have currently avoided being put into special measures,” he added.
Committee chair, councillor Jonathan Abbott (Lib Dem, Clapham & Oakley) said: “I’ll just like to commend you and your team… for the good work on the planning appeals.
“And long may that continue so we don’t get taken into special measures,” he said.
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
