Bob Russell
Main Page: Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat - Colchester)(10 years, 1 month ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text
Brandon Lewis
I am sure the hon. Gentleman appreciates that every planning decision that comes through the Department is taken on its own merits. Obviously I cannot comment on a particular application as it is going through its process.
Sir Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD)
Neighbourhood planning and community rights are clearly welcome, so will the Minister give advice to a community that cannot exercise them because the people who are planning to build 3,000 houses on their doorstep are in the neighbouring local authority area?
Brandon Lewis
The hon. Gentleman highlights an issue for local authorities, and Labour’s plans, which would allow councils to build on other councils’ land, would create that very problem. That is why we have the duty to co-operate and planning inspectors look very carefully at how it is exercised. I would be very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss the issue.