We're often (all too often) contacted by members of the public who just cannot believe the planning system and how it works. Here is just one perfect example of how the system is broken.
In 2015 an application for 22 houses was lodged in Hellifield (again and again Hellifield is under attack). The application number is 42/2015/15870
visit http://www.planning.cravendc.gov.uk/fastweb/welcome.asp
The officers (i.e. those paid by Craven District Council) recommended the application for approval however the planning committee (those elected by you) refused it.
That would lead the average person to think it has gone away.
Not so!
In 2016 another application (number 42/2016/16640) was made to Craven District Council this time it was called a resubmission of previous outline application (meaning the one the planning committee debated and refused the previous year).
Around the same time an application regarding the refusal of the first application was lodged with planning inspectorate
(this is appeal number APP/C2708/W/16/3144368)
So, shortly, the planning committee have to debate the new application which is a resubmission of the first application whilst not knowing how the planning inspectorate will rule the appeal regarding the refusal of the first application (following things so far?)
Perhaps we're not meant to understand....
All council's are terrified of costs, which if they lose, can be awarded against them. So, HOW DO THE MEMBERS OF CRAVEN PLANNING COMMITTEE OBJECTIVELY AND REASONABLY DECIDE HOW TO VOTE ON THE NEW APPLICATION WHILST AWAITING THE DECISION OF THE APPEAL AGAINST THE FIRST APPLICATION?
They're damned if they do and damned if they don't.
Is this fair on the people of Hellifield and the members of the Planning Committee?