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PLANNING ISSUES


PROACTIVE ENGAGEMENT WITH THE PLANNING PROCESS


Over the last 12 to 18 months we have seen a fundamental review of the planning process, particularly in relation to dealing with wind energy planning applications.


NEW PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK This has included the introduction of a new planning policy framework, a new planning practice guidance and most recently, in December 2013, the requirement from developers of two or more turbines or with a tip height of more than 15m, i.e. virtually all wind turbines, to undertake extensive pre- submission consultation with the community.


Whilst it is up to each local authority to decide the exact content the applicant is required to…


• Publicise the proposed application in such manner as the person reasonably considers is likely to bring the proposed application to the attention of a majority of the persons who live at, or otherwise occupy, premises in the vicinity of the land


• Provide details on how the applicant may be contacted by persons wishing to comment on, or collaborate on the


FEATURE SPONSOR


planning process. Using our extensive experience we have been able to resolve many issues before they become reasons for refusal.”


Drawing on his Local Authority experience Clive suggests the following tips…


design of, the proposed development, and give such information about the proposed timetable for the consultation as is sufficient to ensure that persons wishing to comment on the proposed development may do so in good time


• Provide information on how the application has taken account of these comments


Whilst this may appear onerous, most applications, particularly larger schemes already have undertaken consultation with the local planning authority, statutory consultees and neighbouring properties


PROACTIVE APPROACH


Clive Fagg, Associate Planner at SLR Consulting recommends taking “a proactive approach to working with all parties involved and to steer projects through the


• Engage with planners at an early stage to avoid costly surprises and delays during the later stages. This engagement should not stop once the application is submitted and should continue after the development is operational


• LPA planners are, generally, not renewable energy specialists, so ensure that requests for information are responded to fully and in a timely manner


• Don’t assume that information provided for previous applications should be sufficient this time


• Planning applications should clearly demonstrate that the proposed development conforms with local plan policy or that, on balance, the potential benefits outweigh the potential harm


• Don’t blame the planner – they are just responding to public, political and consultee concerns


Clive Fagg - Associate Planner SLR Consulting


90


www.windenergynetwork.co.uk


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