Amenity Societies Gain Recognition as Statutory Consultees

The CBA with the five other national amenity societies are now recognised jointly as statutory consultees which the Secretary of State must consult on national policy statements.

The introduction of National Policy Statements under the new Planning Act (2008) has been contentious, perceived as lacking democratic accountability. A Government consultation in January 2009 sought views on which organisations should be included in the list of statutory consultees which the Secretary of State must consult about the designation of new NPS. These statements will cover subjects such as energy, fossil fuels, renewables, gas supply, electricity networks, water supply, ports and airports. Some, such as airports, are likely to be specific to particular localities. As well as scrutiny by Parliamentary Select Committee, the NPS will also be the subject of consultation at the draft stage. The Joint Committee of National Amenity Societies has now been included on the list of organisations that the Secretary of State is legally obliged to consult before finally designating an NSP. As a member of the Joint Committee, the CBA will be in a key position to comment on this potentially controversial planning reform.

More details here .