Incinerator group 'denied access' to planning files

THE group fighting plans for a chicken waste incinerator at Glenavy say they have been forced to make legal representations to the Planning Service as they has been denied inspection access to the planning files on the scheme since last November.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Mar 2010, 13:05 BST
Updated 18th Mar 2010, 13:51 BST

In a letter from its legal representatives Carson McDowell, CALNI put to the Chief Planning Officer that what it says is the decision to 'shut down public access to the file' has prejudiced their's and the general public's ability to participate in the planning process.

The letter says: "We repeat our request for immediate access to the open file on these applications and for copies of all correspondence, emails, attendance notes and other documentation that has not yet been provided to our client and its representatives together with an opportunity to comment upon same.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Please note that use will be made of this correspondence in any subsequent legal proceedings challenging the Planning Service`s handling of this case."

Ray Clarke, Chairman of CALN, said theyI will be raising the issue with the DOE Scrutiny Committee at Stormont.

"We are questioning the position taken by the Planning Service and why they feel it is important to deny the public our legal right to inspect planning information that directly affects our lives," he said.

A spokesperson for the Planning Service said: "The Planning Service is required to keep a copy of all planning applications received, together with copies of any plans and drawings, environmental statements etc. associated with the applications.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"This register of information is known as the 'Planning Register' and provides the public with sufficient information to allow them to understand the proposal and make representations to it. In the case of the Rose Energy applications, this information continues to be available for viewing at Planning Service Headquarters by appointment.

"Planning Service also operate an open file policy which means that a planning application file is available for viewing by the public by appointment only.

The planning application file is a working document and at certain times of the process will not be immediately available.

"Planning Service has continued to receive representations in respect of the Rose Energy planning applications, and the issues raised will be carefully considered before a final decision is reached."