“The Secretary of State will, in general, only consider the use of his call-in powers if planning issues of more than local importance are involved. Such cases may include, for example, those which in his opinion:
may conflict with national policies on important matters;
may have significant long-term impact on economic growth and meeting housing needs across a wider area than a single local authority;
could have significant effects beyond their immediate locality;
give rise to substantial cross-boundary or national controversy;
raise significant architectural and urban design issues; or
may involve the interests of national security or of foreign Governments.
However, each case will continue to be considered on its individual merits.”
The DCLG has refused to say why it intimated it might call in the Uplyme planning application or tell us who instigated the process.
Will it, perhaps, tell us WHICH reason above it used? And, if it doesn’t – what is to stop this Department doing this any time it wishes?
Is this democratic?
This briefing paper raises further questions:
A notice to call in appears to have to be made BEFORE a decision by the local authority takes place and takes the place of it – i.e. the application goes directly to DCLG instead of to the local authority. However, it seems in this instance the DCLG simply indicated that it MIGHT be called in. How can this be permissible.
There seems little doubt that Hallam Land Management will appeal the decision – perhaps this will then be clarified.
East Devon Watch 