Terms of reference

To consider how, within the context of the Government's objectives for the planning system and building on the reforms already announced, the planning application process can be improved for the benefit for all involved.

In particular to;

• Carry out an "end to end" review of a sample (including, in particular, major housing development, proposals by small and medium sized enterprises and renewable energy schemes) of applications for planning permission and associated consents as they move through the system, to establish where delays in processing applications occur. This would include a preliminary assessment of the use of planning performance agreements within the process and a consideration of how the operations of local planning authorities could be further improved through application of the principles of better regulation.
• Consider the interaction between statutory consultees such as the Highways Agency, Environment Agency and Natural England and the planning development consent process and identify ways to make it operate effectively and efficiently;
• Identify areas where there is scope for reducing administrative burdens, for example through further reduction of or streamlining in information requirements or extending the use of e-planning, consistent with efficient application of development controls and delivery of sustainable development;
• Identify potential changes to ensure that the degree of planning control is proportionate to the potential impact of development on its environment (particularly through the use of permitted development rights and processes for dealing with minor appeals) and to ensure that planning resources are focused where they can deliver best value.