BARKER REVIEW INTO PLANNING

That this House expresses concern at the recommendations of the report on planning produced by Kate Barker for HM Treasury and the Department for Communities and Local Government; criticises the plans for a new undemocratic government quango to impose development on local communities; believes the extension of powers for unelected regional assemblies to weaken the Green Belt is deeply unwelcome; is concerned that the proposals on out-of-town planning would undermine urban regeneration and weaken the vitality of small shops and local high streets; and asserts that the report calls into question the Government's environmental credentials.