Local planning authorities must publish all relevant documents about a planning application in time for objectors to consider them, and before any application has been heard by a Planning Committee.  The High Court recently found that the failure to do this warranted the quashing of a planning permission. If you are making representations to a planning application you have a right to view the relevant documents and have time to respond; make sure you press for those documents.

The full Annual Report of the Planning Inspectorate has recently been published, which provides an update on how they are performing: unfortunately not as well as they would hope, with a slowing down of the appeals process. The Report has helpful case studies of how appeals run, and more information on the operation of the Inspectorate.

The Planning Inspectorate has published the results of a survey with its users, and it doesn't read well. Only 57% are satisfied with the organisation, and trust dropping to 53%. It has been a busy time in planning and they are under pressure, but they recognise improvements needed. Full results here.

The Government has announced a trial of new digital techniques to involve the public in planning. This will be more interactive maps, integrated with Local Plan production, and notification of planning applications - doing away with 'notices on lampposts' that they feel are too old fashioned.

The Queen's Speech will be announcing the Government's new Planning Bill. Whilst some of the media reports might be speculating too much on a free for all, undoubtedly there will be new measures that seek to simplify planning and increase house building in areas across the country. Public participation will remain in planning, but residents need to be well-informed in order to get their voice heard.

A recent court case in Cambridgeshire has clarified some aspects of public consultation on development. A Highways Authority had objected to a development scheme on the grounds of highway safety. A change to the scheme led to the Authority raising no objection, but due to economic benefit. That was found to be unlawful - the lesson is that consultees must stick to their remit.

Latest statistics show the time taken for planning appeals to be determined by the Planning Inspectorate is still higher than a few years ago, but it is dropping. A householder appeal will now take around 4 months, and other written appeals about 5/6 months. But with local planning authorities often taking many months to determine applications, appeals against non-determination may be more popular anyway in order to get a decision.

The Government has announced further changes to permitted development rights. Shops can now change to housing, subject to prior approval from the Council. There are limited controls over what shops can change, with only those in conservation areas being subject to tests. There is a floorspace limit though