asked the Minister for the Environment if he has given any commitment to review the charges for planning applications and appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Planning Applications.
460.
Prior to the introduction of fees for planning applications and appeals, the cost of the planning control system was borne by the public at large through general taxation. At a time when the public finances are under particular strain and are incapable of meeting all of the many demands on them, it was decided that those persons using the planning system in particular cases should make some contribution towards the cost and thus relieve to some extent the burden falling on the ratepayers and the taxpayers. All applications and appeals must be carefully processed and assessed and the cost to public funds of this operation now exceeds £10 million. The fees which have been introduced are relatively modest and will meet only a proportion of this outlay. While I have no immediate proposals to change the fees system, I intend to keep the operation of the system under review and if in due course it emerges that elements of the system are giving rise to serious difficulties or problems, I will consider what actions might then be taken.