A CALL for extra consultation on major planning applications was made in the Commons by Ealing Central and Acton MP Rupa Huq.
She complained to Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg: “Multiple measures affecting us all seem to be rushed through with no meaningful consultation of communities.”
She asked for advice on how, as an opposition backbencher with Friday sittings now gone, she could engage better on major plans and reconfiguring of borough roads, sometimes drawn up before the pandemic.
The reference to major applications alluded to last week’s Ealing Council planning meeting, where the decision to replace Perceval House with a 26-storey block was deferred.
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Ms Huq opposed approving the development, citing concerns over its height, losing the character of the area while providing inadequate housing for families.
Her reference to reconfiguring roads related to the controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTNs) scheme introduced in Ealing last year.
Mr Rees-Mogg said: “Some councils have abused the extra funding that has been provided and the ability to implement measures without proper consultation, particularly in relation to LTNs, which have caused great inconvenience to motorists and not much benefit to residents.”
Ms Huq said later: “There’s a widespread feeling that communities have been left in the dark on decisions that have greatly impacted their lives.
“I raised the question as our lives are set to dramatically change as we learn to live with coronavirus.
“There is a case to be made that big planning decisions, with widespread implications lasting years, are subject to additional consultation to COVID-proof them so they are compatible with the needs and wants of communities in the new normal.”
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