Waverley Introduces Concerning Changes to Planning Process

The newly elected Waverley Borough Council administration has proposed a potentially severe blow to local accountability and its councillors' ability to effectively represent their constituents. During the full council meeting on the 23rd of May, the following were presented:

• Firstly, that the Eastern and Western Planning Committees would be abolished, making way for two new Planning Committees, namely Planning Committee A and Planning Committee B. The change in structure being intended to bring about a fresh approach to the planning process.
• Secondly, that the new terms of reference for Planning Committee A and B are granted the authority to make decisions on planning applications from any location within the borough. Meaning that the committees would no longer limited by geographical boundaries, allowing them to take a broader perspective on development proposals.
• Finally, a deeply concerning aspect of these decisions, is that ward members would be prohibited from participating in debates or voting on planning applications within their own wards. While they may still make representations to open and close the committee debates, their ability to influence the decision-making process would be drastically curtailed.

At present, ward councillors face a significant challenge when it comes to expressing their views on an application during meetings due to the concept of 'pre-determination.' This restricts their ability to openly share their sentiments regarding an application until the meeting is already midway. This cautious approach stems from the fear of being perceived as biased or prejudiced in their decision-making process. The existing framework creates a sense of wariness among ward councillors, hindering their ability to openly and transparently communicate their perspectives.

If these plans were progressed, it would however effectively strip Ward councillors of their voice and voting power on planning matters for the ward they are meant to represent. This removal of councillors from Planning Committee decisions would not only undermine the wealth of local knowledge that they bring but would weaken the foundations of our local democracy. After all, councillors are elected precisely to champion their respective wards, and this proposal defies both the guidance on probity in planning and basic common sense. Instead of dictating how councillors participate in the planning processes, it should be their prerogative to decide their own involvement, ensuring a fair and effective system. 

At full council, the Liberal Democrat Leader of the Council, Paul Follows, acknowledged the concerns raised by councillors regarding the proposed changes. He stated that the changes, if implemented, would directly affect him and his fellow colleague from the Godalming Central & Ockford Ward, rendering them unable to contribute in this capacity. By highlighting this personal impact, he emphasized his commitment to fairness and integrity, ensuring that he does not advocate for something that he himself would be exempt from.

Councillor Follows also suggested that by expediting the decision-making process, these changes would enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of the local planning system. Furthermore, they would serve as a proactive measure to prevent the government from assuming control over Waverley's planning functions, thereby preserving the autonomy and local decision-making authority of the council.

Independent Councillor David Munro perceived the proposed changes as a regressive measure that would significantly diminish the crucial role of ward councillors. With a discerning perspective, he expressed his concerns about the potential consequences of these changes, emphasizing that they would lead to a reduction in the influence and significance of ward councillors in local governance.

Councillor Michael Goodridge, a highly experienced Conservative councillor for Wonersh & Bramley, expressed his belief that the administration should contemplate a return to the previous system of the Main Planning Committee, which had been temporarily abolished in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Drawing from his wealth of knowledge, Councillor Goodridge cautioned against implementing the proposed changes, asserting that doing so would have dire consequences amounting to nothing short of a disaster. His cautionary stance highlighted the potential risks and pitfalls associated with the proposed alterations, urging careful consideration and emphasizing the need for a prudent approach to preserve the integrity and effectiveness of the planning process.

Councillor Jerry Hyman, a councillor of the Farnham residents party, raised an important concern regarding the alterations to planning comitties, highlighting that the changes blatantly disregarded Waverley's Constitution. In a bold move, Councillor Hyman challenged the authority of the council to implement significant modifications to the committee structure, which would greatly impact the handling of future planning applications for the next four years. Due to the actions of Councillor Hyman, the decission has now been refered to the standards committee and will be put on the back burner until their opinion is given.

It is crucial to recognize that ward councillors from other areas of the borough generally lack the intimate familiarity with the specific concerns and issues raised by local residents regarding particular planning applications. They may lack the deep understanding of the area in question and the intricate dynamics that shape it. This lack of local knowledge can lead to decisions that do not adequately reflect the unique needs and aspirations of the communities affected by proposed developments. It is imperative that we recognize the significance of local knowledge that ward councillors bring and ensure that decisions are made with the best interests of the community and its resiedents first and foremost.

In summary, the proposed changes to the Waverley Borough Council's planning committees have sparked concerns about local accountability and the representation of constituents. The administration aims to abolish the existing committees and introduce two new ones, granting them authority over planning applications throughout the borough. However, the most alarming aspect of these proposals is the prohibition of ward councillors from participating in debates or voting on applications within their own wards, severely limiting their influence. This not only undermines their role as representatives but also weakens local democracy.

It is essential to recognize the value of local knowledge that ward councillors possess and ensure that decisions reflect the unique needs and aspirations of affected communities. Preserving the integrity and effectiveness of the planning process requires careful consideration and a prudent approach.

The agenda pack for the meeting is available to view here