Masterplan Consent Area Regulations: consultation responses summary

Question 6

Question 6A) Draft Regulation 3 provides how consultation for possible proposals for a MCA scheme is to be undertaken, including notification and the requirement to undertake two public events, with opportunity to make comments to the planning authority. To what extent do you agree with this approach?

Responses to Question 6A are set out by respondent type in Table 6 below.

A total of 52 respondents answered this question. A majority – 78.8% of those who answered the question – strongly agreed or agreed with the approach on how consultation for possible proposals for a MCA scheme is to be undertaken. 13.4% disagreed or strongly disagreed and 7.7% remained neutral. There were high levels of agreement from Community and Individuals (90%), Key Agency & Other Public Sector (100%) and Planning Authorities (89.5%).

Question 6B) Please explain your view.

44 respondents provided further comment at Question 6B

Summary /Themes

The responses highlighted a high level of support with the proposed approach on how consultation for possible proposals for a MCA scheme is to be undertaken. The supportive responses noted that the proposals were similar to existing arrangements for planning applications for major developments. This was considered to offer transparency, and was seen as a vital step for ensuring community input.

Six responses consisting of one Community and Individuals, four Development, Property & Land Management sector & Agents and one Planning Authority respondent disagreed with the approach on how consultation for possible proposals for a MCA scheme is to be undertaken. Reasons for disagreement included that the proposed approach was not sufficient and that there should be a requirement for engagement events for all MCAs. Other respondents suggested that advertising the consultation events on Council’s website would have limited reach and there should also be a requirement for an advert in local newspapers.

Seven responses comprising two Planning Authorities, four Development, Property & Land Management sector & Agents and one Third Sector organisation suggested other consultation methods such as interactive online events. Some suggested this should be a requirement while others noted the type of consultation methods should be at the planning authorities discretion.

Development, Property & Land Management sector and Agent respondents, suggested that additional consultees should include their sector, the development industry and their representative bodies and that feedback must be provided on representations submitted.