Question reference: S1W-00574
- Asked by: Gil Paterson, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 16 July 1999
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Current status: Answered by Sarah Boyack on 13 August 1999
Question
To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take when dealing with new open cast planning applications from companies which have been in breach of planning regulations and/or health and safety regulations with regard to their existing mining operations.
Answer
As with all planning applications, each case must be judged on its merits. The publication of a tougher planning policy guidance framework for opencast coal on 31 March 1999 should ensure that applications are subjected to greater scrutiny. Developers will be expected to match the higher standards that are now expected so that greater protection can be given to communities and the environment. Where consent is granted, arrangements should be put in place to ensure development is carried out in accordance with the planning permission and various other control regimes. These are matters for the planning authority and the other control authorities such as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, the Health and Safety Executive and other local authority departments. The relevant body should respond to breaches with speedy and robust action.