One of the most important responsibilities of an elected councillor is ensuring that residents have a meaningful voice when development is proposed in their village.
New national planning delegation rules, due to take effect on 31 October 2026, will restrict the circumstances in which councillors can refer applications for committee consideration. That change concerns me deeply.
Planning officers play an essential role and deserve our respect. But elected-member scrutiny is an important part of local accountability, especially when villages are facing significant and sensitive development proposals.
I have raised my concerns about the changes and supported efforts to challenge them. Whatever your view on any individual application, decisions affecting our villages should be transparent and accountable.
Can I help with a local issue? You can get in touch here or email david.moore@buckinghamshire.gov.uk.