Janet Finch-Saunders AM, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, has challenged the First Minister of Wales over his Welsh Government’s planning policy.

The Member asked him to look at the controversial TAN1 – guidance which dictates how Council calculate their housing land supply.

The guidance changed in 2015, and the new method of calculation has angered many.

Most recently, the Member had raised concerns in relation to a recent planning application at Marl Lane, Llandudno Junction, where planning officers were alleged to have encouraged Councillors to give greater weighting to TAN1 over other TANs (Technical Advice Notes) – including TAN24 on the Historic Environment, and TAN5 on Conservation.

Janet said:

“The Welsh Government must review their guidance under TAN1 – the calculation method is forcing unreasonable housing number requirements on local authorities.

“I welcome the commitment from the First Minister today that this will be reviewed – following much public and political pressure for this, it is great news.

“Councils must also ensure that all TANs are considered equally – of course housing is important, but the preservation of the historic environment and conservation are also essential. We must find the right balance and look at alternative options – bringing empty homes back into use, for example – of which there are approximately 1,789 in Conwy.

“Localism and local democracy in planning is essential. Residents must be able to have confidence in their LDP.”

ENDS