In many local planning authorities, including East Hampshire District Council (EHDC), certain types of planning applications are indeed referred to the Planning Committee rather than being decided by planning officers under delegated powers.
This typically includes larger and more controversial developments, such as those that are outside settlement boundaries or involve a significant number of new houses. Here’s how this works:
Criteria for Referring Applications to the Planning Committee
- Large Developments: Applications involving a significant number of new houses (such as over 50) are often referred to the Planning Committee due to their potential impact on the local area.
- Outside Settlement Boundaries: Developments proposed outside the designated settlement boundaries are likely to be scrutinized more closely, especially if they involve substantial construction, as these areas are usually protected by local planning policies to control urban sprawl and preserve the character of the countryside.
- High Public Interest: Applications that generate a large number of public comments or objections are more likely to be considered by the Planning Committee.
- Controversial Developments: Projects that are contentious or have significant local opposition may also be referred to the Committee to ensure a transparent decision-making process.
- Policy Deviations: Proposals that do not fully comply with local or national planning policies may require Committee consideration to carefully weigh the benefits and impacts.
- Sensitive Areas: Developments affecting sensitive areas such as green belts, conservation areas, or sites with environmental or historical significance are typically referred to the Committee.
Planning Committee Process
Preparation: The planning officers prepare a report for the Planning Committee, summarizing the application, relevant policies, consultation responses, public comments, and a recommendation.
Publication: The agenda for the Committee meeting, including the report and recommendations, is published in advance.
- Notification: Stakeholders, including those who have submitted comments, are notified about the meeting.
- Speaking Rights: Members of the public can register to speak at the meeting to present their views.
- Presentation: The planning officer presents the report and recommendation.
- Public Input: Registered speakers present their comments.
- Debate and Decision: Councillors debate the application and make a decision by voting.
Delegated Powers
- Routine Applications: Smaller and less controversial applications are often decided by planning officers under delegated powers to streamline the process.
- Criteria for Delegation: The criteria for delegation and Committee referral are typically set out in the Council’s Constitution or Scheme of Delegation.
Specific Policy for EHDC
For East Hampshire District Council, the specific criteria for referring applications to the Planning Committee can be found in their local planning policies and procedural documents. It is common for larger developments, especially those outside settlement boundaries and involving a significant number of houses, to be referred to the Planning Committee.
Conclusion
In summary, applications for developments over 50 houses or those outside settlement boundaries are typically referred to the Planning Committee rather than being decided by planning officers under delegated powers due to their potential impact and the level of public interest.
