|
Planning is the system we have for managing changes to our
environment.
We aim to get the balance right between our need for new
development and the need to conserve what we value about our
environment for future generations.
Generally, we deal with applications for transport and land use
(such as mineral sites).
Planning applications for houses or 'household' building work
are dealt with by
district/borough councils.
A democratic process
Our planning system is an important part of our democracy. It
allows a balance of views to be heard as part of a democratic
process. Plus it ensures that elected representatives to central
and local government control the use and development of land.
In doing so these representatives will balance the views of
different groups about proposed developments.
The process provides an opportunity for people to have their say
about the future of their neighbourhoods, communities and
areas.
Responsibility for the planning process
In Kent the operation of the system on a daily basis is provided
by the county and district councils.
Ultimately, however, the responsibility for the planning system
lies with the Office of the Deputy Prime
Minister. |