MHCLG’s consultation on reforms to the statutory consultee system

MHCLG’s  consultation on reforms to the statutory consultee system

Our response focuses on the proposed reforms to key statutory consultees namely removal of Sport England and the Gardens Trust ‘s Statutory Consultee Status and changes to Natural England’s remit.

Sport England

We welcome the Government’s commitment to retain Sport England as a specific plan-making
consultation body for the new plan making system. However, in our opinion it is essential that they remain as Statutory Consultees and are consulted whenever anyone wants to build on a playing field.

Playing fields are vital infrastructure providing many benefits including physical health, mental wellbeing and social cohesion.

The Gardens Trust

The inclusion of the Gardens Trust as Statutory Consultees in relation to development affecting any registered park or garden is vital in ensuring that precious historic parks and gardens are protected from the impact of inappropriate development.