Localism Bill: Leeds MPs champion community power on planning applications

Two Leeds MPs are this week meeting with members of a local pressure group to continue to discuss how to empower local communities to have a greater say in planning policies that affect their area. Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland and Conservative Stuart Andrew will attend the he Wharfedale and Airedale Review Development (WARD) Group's meeting, which will involve a presentation from planning consultant Kathryn Jukes and discussion surrounding the Localism Bill and what this will mean for local groups. WARD have vocally opposed more residential development down the A65 corridor, arguing that the main artery into Leeds cannot cope with any extra traffic. The MPs will meet with the committee to discuss the Bill, as well as the group's ongoing work. Liberal Democrat Greg Mulholland said: "I share the concerns of members of the group about development in the area, particularly with the ongoing issue with the land north of Holt Avenue in Adel, which has been granted outline planning permission, despite serious opposition from local residents, an issue I have been working closely with residents on. "I have long campaigned to give local residents more influence in the planning process. "Ultimately, once the developers have packed up and moved on to their next project they are the ones who have to live with the outcome and it is wrong that currently their views are treated as secondary. The Localism Bill is an important first step towards this. I do, however, hope that the government brings forward stronger, enhanced legislation to give communities the powers they deserve." Conservative Stuart Andrew said: "It is so important that local people have a say in the future direction of their community and that we, as politicians, make sure that the Localism Bill enables this. WARD is a fantastic example of the hard work and dedication that can be put in by a local group to shape changes to the local area and I cannot praise them enough." What do you think? Have your say in the comments section below.