8th September 2008, 04:40 PM
Hi Chaps
In certain ways every local planning authority has its differences and individual planners can have an impact on whether archaeology takes place as pre or post determination work.
I had a look at the Eden (Cumbria) Local Plan as a quick north-west example and the Archaeological Policies (which have been retained during the LDF phase so are still active) are well worded and strongly indicate that pre-determination evaluation is required on known or potential sites.
So, if the Eden Local plan is reflective of others in the North West, in theory (i.e. in policy terms) there is no difference between the north and south. However, elected members and by extension their employees (planners) have to take account of all material considerations and reach a balanced decision. This can mean (for example) that members decide a development's positive economic value outweighs the need for pre-determination evaluation.
I deal with seven different LPAs and I notice very different approaches to my advice. It is particularly noticeable that pre-determination evaluation is less accepted in the more economically deprived District than in the others.
Steven
In certain ways every local planning authority has its differences and individual planners can have an impact on whether archaeology takes place as pre or post determination work.
I had a look at the Eden (Cumbria) Local Plan as a quick north-west example and the Archaeological Policies (which have been retained during the LDF phase so are still active) are well worded and strongly indicate that pre-determination evaluation is required on known or potential sites.
So, if the Eden Local plan is reflective of others in the North West, in theory (i.e. in policy terms) there is no difference between the north and south. However, elected members and by extension their employees (planners) have to take account of all material considerations and reach a balanced decision. This can mean (for example) that members decide a development's positive economic value outweighs the need for pre-determination evaluation.
I deal with seven different LPAs and I notice very different approaches to my advice. It is particularly noticeable that pre-determination evaluation is less accepted in the more economically deprived District than in the others.
Steven