Date: 11 October 2011

Changes to planning law could result in the strategic picture being lost, according to Professor Alister Scott from Birmingham City University.

The professor of spatial planning and governance explained amendments to the law are going to mean a lot will revolve on the definition of sustainable development.

He predicted the changes to planning law will result in local authorities making decisions that benefit their organisation, rather than viewing the bigger picture.

"The government said that is very much based around localism ... and will be up to local authorities and the communities to articulate what their vision of sustainable development is," added Professor Scott.

Friends of the Earth's executive director Andy Atkins recently called for any changes to planning law to be based around protecting the environment.

He stated that unless this is the case, councils will struggle to prevent the creation of buildings that are "damaging" to the countryside.

Bob McGeady, a planning law specialist at Ashton KCJ, comments: “There are real dangers associated with these proposals that will not suit anyone. Concentration on local issues will do nothing to meet the regional and national need for infrastructure. Equally, residents are being given the impression that they can influence development in their local area, but this is incompatible with the presumption in favour of sustainable development and the new homes bonus paid to Councils who approve new housing developments.

A sure fire recipe for disgruntlement, confusion and plenty of scope for argument!”

For advice on planning law contact Bob McGeady or a member of the team at Ashton KCJ.