How much influence do developers have on this Council?

This item was considered at the meeting held on 23 February 2012.

How much influence do developers have on this Council?

How much influence do developers have on this Council?        

Response from the Leader of the Council, Councillor Patrick Molyneux 

The Development Industry in its widest sense, i.e. those who wish to build and develop, is essential to the local and national economy. Accordingly, the Council adopts a positive approach to engagement with developers. This is done on the basis of an adopted protocol (Pre-application Advice Protocol) which is available on the Council’s website. Notwithstanding this positive approach, all planning application decisions must be made on their individual planning merits having regard to relevant up to date planning policies and other material considerations. This is demonstrated by the production of a detailed report in respect of all applications determined by the Council. Such reports demonstrate how the balance between the wishes of the applicant (developer) and any third parties has been evaluated.

Supplementary question

Cllr Edey wondered if that was the case even if a development was a risk to residents.