Issue - meetings

Following the implementation of the Localism Act in November 2011, a number of new measures to reinforce local planning authorities’ enforcement powers were introduced.  Changes to the Planning Act came into force on 6 April 2012.  The National Planning Policy Framework published in March 2012 introduced new policy guidance which emphasised the importance of effective enforcement as a means of maintaining public confidence in the planning system.

The report summarised recent changes to legislation and national policy guidance and reviewed the Council’s approach to planning enforcement.  Members were requested to authorise the preparation and adoption of a Local Enforcement Policy (incorporating the changes introduced by the Localism Act), in accordance with the guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework.

The Chairman outlined the report and welcomed the policy to reinforce Local Planning Authorities' enforcement powers.

Councillor Mellor questioned whether there would be sufficient staff to undertake the enforcement action required.

In response to a question from Councillor Manning, the Chief Planner informed Members that the new powers introduced under Section 225C (paragraph 3.7, page 201), could be used on temporary signs outside public houses, however most signs were likely to have been removed before the 28 day expiry of an Action Notice.

Councillor Buttinger asked the cost of a level 4 penalty imposed for being in breach of a Breach of Condition Notice (paragraph 3.5, page 201).  The Legal Representative informed Members that he thought it was £2,500; this would be confirmed to Members via e-mail.

RESOLVED that the report be noted and the preparation and adoption of a Local Enforcement Policy in accordance with the guidance in the NPPF incorporating the recent changes introduced by the Localism Act be endorsed.