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OUTRAGE OVER GOVERNMENT PROPOSALS TO FAST-TRACK PLANNING SYSTEM17 Dec 2001 FOE Lawyers Study DetailsFriends of the Earth is
appalled at Government plans to fast-track the planning
system for major infrastructure projects, published
today, which undermines local democracy and environmental
protection. The list of projects to be 'approved by
Parliament' and not open to question at a public inquiry
includes chemical plants, quarries, open-cast coal mines
and dual-carriageways over 30km, as well as nuclear
facilities, runways and ports. Friends of the Earth
lawyers will now closely study the proposals to ensure
they comply with human rights and environmental
protection legislation. Under Government proposals, Parliament will make the decision on a project and any local inquiry will take “as read the principle of, need for and location.” Friends of the Earth says this will be disastrous for the environment and citizens' rights. Hugh Ellis, Planning Campaigner at Friends of the Earth said: “We are stunned
by the scope of this announcement. The Government has
completely caved-in to industry. Under these disastrous
proposals local peoples rights to object to chemical
plants, quarries and open-cast coal mines has been
severely undermined. Our lawyers will examine these
details very closely. “These plans are
a nightmare for local democracy and the environment.
Parliament will decide whether a community gets an
airport, port or road in their neighbourhood. Local
people will only have a say on smaller issues - such as
what colour to paint the gates at their new nuclear power
station.” The Government proposals
can be found at |
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