Consultation has begun on the National Scheme of Delegation (NSD), with the regulation expected to come into effect on 30th September this year (subject to the outcome of the consultation). The NSD sets out the following approach to decision making for Councils;
Tier A: Minor and householder applications are to be mandatorily delegated to officers.
Tier B: Larger schemes are to remain delegated decisions unless they meet strict “high-impact” criteria for referral to Planning Committee.
The requirement for mandatory training for Planning Committee Members is still under consideration. Giles Moir, Director at Chapman Lily Planning, commented “the NSD reflects the Government’s aim of reducing the inconsistencies and inefficiencies that are perceived to arise from Planning Committee’s, the NSD will provide consistency for applicant’s with regard to which applications are referred to Planning Committee – it will be interesting to see, in due course, the consultation responses and how these may shape the final NSD”.
