Cornish Villagers Concerned Over New Planning Laws Threatening Protection
Residents of Cornwall are expressing growing concerns regarding new planning laws that could jeopardize local environmental protections. Significant changes proposed in the government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill have raised alarms among community members, particularly regarding their ability to contest planning applications effectively.
Concerns Over Planning and Infrastructure Bill
Barbara Laing, a local resident, has been at the forefront of this issue. She dedicated six years and substantial personal financial resources to challenge a previous planning scheme through a judicial review. Laing’s successful efforts highlighted crucial environmental protections, particularly regarding hedges in the area.
Impact of Judicial Review Access
Laing shared her apprehension about the potential difficulties posed by the new legislation. One significant aspect is Clause Nine of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which aims to restrict access to judicial reviews for local residents. According to Laing, this limitation could hinder communities’ ability to challenge unfavorable planning decisions effectively.
Removal of Ecological Surveys
Another critical concern raised by Laing involves the proposed removal of site-specific ecological surveys. These surveys have been vital in identifying what kind of wildlife and habitats exist in a given area, thereby ensuring necessary protections. Without these evaluations, communities could face reduced safeguards for their local environment.
Community Response
- Residents fear reduced environmental protections.
- Barbara Laing emphasizes the importance of judicial review accessibility.
- Changes to ecological surveys could diminish site awareness.
The community continues to voice its worries about how these legislative changes could reshape their environment and planning rights. As discussions around the Planning and Infrastructure Bill progress, the residents of Cornwall hope their concerns will be addressed to preserve both their local landscape and their rights as citizens.
