The planning system is hardly a shining example of democracy in action even at the moment. A local planning committee of elected councilors, advised by professional planning officers decides if an application gets the go-ahead or not.

If the committee dares to go against the officers recommendation, it stands to pay a hefty fine if the inevitable appeal by the applicant is successful.

An appeal, by the way, which will often be decided by a single unelected planning officer who has very little (if any) knowledge of local circumstances, and decides based on national guidelines. His/her decision is final.

The new Government plan will continue the above arrangement, but with more powers for projects of a national importance. It is thought this will cover airports, wind farms, major power stations, perhaps even the so-called 'eco-towns'.

This will mean a decision can be taken that could dramatically affect the way and quality of life of masses of residents, but we, as the general public can do absolutely nothing about it. What a depressing thought.

The following is how is should work…

An application is put in and goes before the planning committee. The committee can seek representations from local people, and decide on established principles if it is acceptable or not. If it is, the applicant is happy. If it is contested, and defeated, the opponents are happy. End of story.

If the committee goes against public opinion, they can be democratically voted out at the next election. If they are seen to be doing the right thing they can be endorsed at the next election with an election win.

It's called democracy. It's not brilliant – there's still a role for an overseeing authority, but only one to ensure fair play, not to make the actual decisions. That way there is accountability – the people get the say, not big brother.


WHAT a great game last night, and well done to Nadal, a worthy champion.

Have a great week everyone.