Local planning matters:
I am frequently contacted by constituents who are either applying for planning permission, or by those who object to a particular proposal.
Typically, I do not intervene or provide a comment either for, or against, a local planning matter as this is the statutory responsibility of the local authority – which in the case of South Suffolk is Babergh District Council, or West Suffolk Council for applications in Clare and Cavendish. I am of the belief that it would not be appropriate for myself, an elected representative of national government, to weigh in on what is ultimately a local government decision. However, I have been active on the planning application for new pylons in the constituency, which is to be decided at a national level.
Assistance that I can provide:
For applicants –
Although I would not normally support a planning application directly, should you experience undue delay in receiving a response from the local authority, I am able to contact them directly to request a response for you. Likewise, if you have any concerns with the way in which your application is being handled, I can raise you comments directly with the Council for their attention.
For objectors/supporters –
Again, although I do not usually support or object to specific planning applications, if you have particular concerns that you feel would be useful for the Council to be aware of, I am able to raise your points with the Council for their attention.
However, I would always recommend that a constituent who wishes to support or object to a planning application lodges their comments directly, via Babergh District Council’s Planning Portal under the appropriate application reference. Please see the following link for more information - https://www.babergh.gov.uk/planning/enforcement/planning-portal/.