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Calling in the Planning Application for review

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THE GOVERNMENT’S POLICY ON CALL-IN

The Government’s policy on call-in was laid out in a written answer to Mr Bill Michie in Hansard on 16 June 1999 by Richard Caborn.  Mr Caborn said that the First Secretary of State’s general approach, like that of previous Secretary of States’, is not to interfere with the jurisdiction of local planning authorities unless it is necessary to do so.  Parliament has entrusted them with responsibility for the day to day planning control in their areas.  It is right in that in general, they should be free to carry out their duties responsibly, with the minimum of interference.

There will be some occasions, however, when the Secretary of State may consider it necessary to call in the planning application to determine himself instead of leaving the decision to the local planning authority.

The Secretary of State’s policy is to be very selective about calling in planning applications.  He will in general, only take this step if planning issues of more than local importance are involved.  Such cases may include for example, those which in his opinion:

• May conflict with national policies on important matters;
• Could have significant effects beyond their immediate locality;
• Give rise to substantial regional or national controversy;
• Raise significant architectural and urban design issues; or
• May involve the interests of national security or of foreign Governments.

However, each case will continue to be considered on its individual merits.