This is possibly the most important thing I have asked you all to do via this blog – follow this link and ensure our MPs are aware of your opposition to this appalling attempt to circumvent local democracy in the planning process. This has implications for every one of us, and future generations, if we let them get away with it.

http://www.foe.co.uk/campaigns/fair_future/press_for_change/bill_silence_local_voices_38544.html#.UM5dsJdvHfo.facebook

The new Growth and Infrastructure Bill will allow developers to bypass local authorities in some cases.

Bypassing local councils

Local authorities decide local planning decisions.

But in some “designated” local authorities the Secretary of State has suggested developers have the option to bypass them.

This will undermine local accountability and centralise these planning decisions.

Fast-tracking decisions

The Bill also creates an opportunity for developers to “fast-track” major projects instead of going to the local authority.

This could include developments for warehouses, leisure parks and large onshore gas extraction- i.e. FRACKING!