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Sandy Bruce-Lockhart said:

?The White Paper contains proposals which would, if put in practice, help make the planning system in this country simpler, faster and more responsive to the needs of local people and local economies. The government has talked the talk on deregulation and devolution, now it must show that it is willing to act.

?Councils will be pleased that the White Paper proposes a reduction in the volume of national policy guidance, fewer government appeals and an end to needless involvement by ministers in local issues which can and must be decided by democratically-elected councillors. We will be pressing the government to put these proposals in place speedily, with determination, and with a willingness to devolve further.?

On proposals for an independent planning commission to oversee major infrastructure projects, Sandy Bruce-Lockhart said:

?There are a very few major projects such as airports or motorways which are of vital national importance, and councils accept that these developments have repercussions which are felt far beyond local authority boundaries. But they will also have a huge impact on local areas, and the views of local people must not be ignored.?

On proposals for the deregulation of minor planning applications, Sandy Bruce-Lockhart said:

?Homeowners should be able to make home improvements such as loft conversions, conservatories and solar panels without getting bogged down in unnecessary planning red tape. At the same time, local people and councils must be able to make sure that any new development or alterations to people's homes don't harm their neighbours or the local area.?