Dickson annoyed public could be charged to view planning files

Alliance Party Chair Stewart Dickson has expressed annoyance that Environment Minister Edwin Poots is considering charging the public to see planning files. He said that this would be a negative move and could deter the public from getting involved in planning issues that affect them.

Cllr Stewart Dickson said: “I am annoyed that the Minister is considering this measure. This would be a very negative and retrograde step in relation to the important issue of planning.

“This could deter people from looking at plans and if anything we should be helping the public to have an input in planning issues that affect them.

“As a party that has campaigned for the rights of third parties to appeal on planning we want to allow people to have more say these matters. Something like this being implemented would be a real blow to the public.”

ENDS