Appendix 3
Draft letter for lobbyists
Dear Sir/Madam
The Role of an Elected Member in a Planning Application
Thank you for seeking my advice as an Elected Member on a planning application. I will do all that I can to see that the matter is dealt with as fairly and as quickly as possible. My role as an Elected Member is to listen and assist you and others through the planning process. The process is complex and involves consulting a number of different people. The views of various people will not always coincide.
The Council has adopted policies on certain planning matters and it is important that applications are dealt with firmly in accordance with those policies, and relevant national guidance, so that decisions are consistent throughout the Borough. A large number of applications are dealt with directly by Planning Officers under powers delegated to them. Other applications are dealt with by Planning Committee. If I am a Elected Member of the Committee I will have a vote on this application. If not, I may be able to attend the Committee if the application is within my Ward, but not vote. It is not possible for me to provide any commitment or support for an application or objection until I have heard all the facts presented at Committee. I may also be approached by others who will take a different point of view to you and I will therefore need to weigh up all the conflicting considerations.
Any views that you have on an application should be sent directly to the Council's Director of Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services and any correspondence or information that I have received will also be passed on to the appropriate officer.
I am required by the Council's Planning Code of Practice to maintain my impartiality and integrity and not to attempt or be seen as attempting to influence Planning Officers or fellow Elected Members. I therefore cannot act as an advocate or agent on your behalf.
If I am an Elected Member of Planning Committee I may refer you to another Elected Member who will help you make out your case.
If I am involved in making a decision on an application I cannot accept any gifts or hospitality from you or be seen to meet you or to meet you on or off site or otherwise give the impression of influence or bias. I hope this clarifies my role as an Elected Member in the planning process.