Forum Topic

Planning Department grievances?

The number one issue I get by way of complaint is the planning department. The allegations of incompetence and possible corruption are all too frequent. Many people feel let down. Do you have a grievance with the planning department? I have asked the Council Leader for a public meeting for residents to be able to air their grievances and concerns. It is clear that the department seems to have no interest in improving their service?Would you attend a public meeting to vent your frustrations and suggestions?

Benjamin Dennehy ● 4711d5 Comments

I certainly would have a lot to say about the planning departments  blatant incompetance when a few years ago I had need to point out an unlawful construction adjacent to my property.It made headlines in the Gazette at the time. The structure was still constructed, and used today as I feared at the time.

Os A Whittle ● 4705d

The only lessons learned from that were how not to get caught.

Michael Brandt ● 4710d

They look squeaky clean though when compared to the antics of the architect John Poulson and the Newcastle council leader T. Dan Smith back in the 1960's.

Nigel Brooks ● 4711d

What was the planning angle in respect of the Clay Cross affair please?I thought the dispute was about a refusal to implement government policy in respect of council housing rents.

Tony Colliver ● 4711d

If you think things are a bit bent, corrupt or simply incompetent then look no further than neighbouring Hounslow.Too many planning officers make poor recommendations to simply get the file off their desks and out of the way.Too many work to policies which are very poor and too many have comfy links to certain architects and developers. As do too many councillors.Just why are so many councillors of all parties working in PR and lobby companies that have developers as their main clients?If there is an investigation it needs to be very, very thoroughPlanners have been very closed ever since the Clay Cross affair nearly 40 years ago.

Michael Brandt ● 4711d