Alex White (Labour)

Section 35 of the principal Act lists a series of persons who can be refused planning permission. This amending section contains a provision that states, "the planning authority is satisfied that a person to whom this section applies is not in compliance with a previous permission or with a condition to which the previous permission is subject, has carried out a substantial unauthorised development, or has been convicted of an offence under this Act,". The Labour Party's amendment No. 51 wants to add to that, a person who has failed to complete a development.

All Members will be familiar with the phenomenon of unfinished estates. While there are many fine builders who do as they are contracted, unfortunately some rogue builders do not complete estates leaving home owners with difficulties and no recourse. I accept finishing estates has become a condition of planning permissions and a refusal can be made if the applicant is not in compliance with a previous permission. However, this amendment will put the matter beyond doubt.