Tony Arbour, Hounslow, Kingston and Richmond upon Thames representative on the Greater London Authority, has slammed leaked government proposals to reform the planning system.

Mr Arbour's concern comes in the wake of growing speculation that the government intends to abolish appeals to public inquiries on matters which they consider to be of national importance.

If this were implemented it would mean that decisions, such as the scheme for a fifth terminal at Heathrow, would have been determined by a minister, without the objections of local councils and residents being subject to examination.

It also means that if the alleged proposals are true, should there be an application for a third runway it will be determined by the government without proper consultation with local residents.

Mr Arbour said: "This is a potential disaster for local people who care about their environment.

"The planning system is already weighted against private residents and amenity groups in that only applicants, not opponents, of new developments can appeal against decisions they do not like.

"It is local residents who have to suffer the consequences of major developments on their doorsteps and it would be totally undemocratic if they were denied a fair hearing at public inquiries."

He added that he has every intention of fighting the proposals all the way.

"Sadly, this is yet another move by our government of control freaks to limit the rights of individuals," he said.

"Such a decision will be bad for democracy and bad for the environment.

"I will strongly oppose this further erosion of citizens freedom."

December 6, 2001 18:02