DUMFRIESSHIRE, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell has hit out at an SNP decision to axe planning rules set up to protect local communities.
Laws which require new developments to inform their local community before changing planning conditions, such as hours of business, have been scrapped by the Scottish Government.
The changes to the legislation were made at the Local Government and Regeneration Committee in the Scottish Parliament.
“This move will mean big companies, such as supermarkets, can easily extend their opening hours without consulting with the people in their area. Other changes could include modifications to building designs and layout,” said Mr Mundell.
“The operational hours of a business can be the difference between local people objecting to or supporting an application. While the overall idea of simplifying the planning system for business is welcome, my concern remains that the new system will be open to abuse.”
This change would undoubtedly make the planning process a smoother one for many developers, but many people would be surprised to hear that developers can now sneak through controversial planning conditions changes.
“That could make the difference between the support and opposition of the local community.
“It is essential that changes are not open to abuse and a fair balance between local residents’ interests and an efficient system is struck,” added Mr Mundell.