Planning Application
Why is the public inquiry taking place?
The planning application was reported to LBL’s Planning Applications Committee (PAC) on 29 March 2022 and committee members resolved to grant planning permission subject to the signing of the Section 106 agreement, conditions, Stage 2 referral to the GLA and referral to the Secretary of State (SoS).
The SoS accordingly directs, under his powers in section 77 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, that the application shall be referred to him instead of being dealt with by the Local Planning Authority. To consider all the relevant aspects of the proposed development, the Secretary of State has decided to hold a public inquiry.
The GLA’s Stage 2 report was issued on 22 August 2022 which stated that the Mayor was content to allow LBL to determine the case itself, subject to any action the SoS may take, and do not wish therefore to direct refusal or takeover the application for his own determination.
The SoS called in the planning application (ref 21/02668/EIAFUL) on 31 August 2022.
The application is due to be heard at a public inquiry starting at 10:00am on 06 December 2022. The inquiry is expected to run for twelve days however, the duration is not fixed and will depend on how the evidence emerges.
What is the Planning Inspectorate’s role?
Public inquiries are managed and determined by the Planning Inspectorate. The Planning Inspectorate is an executive agency sponsored by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
There is a strict process and timeframe for conducting public inquiries.
What is the council’s role in the proceedings?
The council is a main party in the appeal and will present evidence to the inquiry
What is the council’s position?
On 29 March 2022, LBL’s Planning Applications Committee (PAC) and committee members resolved to grant planning permission subject to the signing of the Section 106 agreement, conditions, Stage 2 referral to the GLA and referral to the Secretary of State (SoS). The council will give evidence in support of the application at the public inquiry.
What is a Rule 6 Party and what is their role?
Rule 6 status under The Town and Country Planning (Inquiries Procedure) (England) Rules 2000 has been granted to the Save Our Southbank and Coin Street Community Builders Ltd, and they will therefore have an active part in the inquiry as one of the main parties alongside the council and the applicant.