Planning enforcement
Freedom of Information
12.1 The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives a general right of access to information held by public authorities. The Authority holds much information including information relating to pre-application advice, planning applications and appeals. The presumption will always be in favour of disclosure of such information. This is because it is important for the Authority to promote accountability and transparency in the planning process and to allow individuals to understand views expressed and the reasons underlying decisions that have been taken.
12.2 While requests to disclose the identity of a complainant are likely to be resisted because it would discourage others from reporting alleged breaches of planning control to the Authority, thereby prejudicing the proper enforcement of planning laws within the National Park, each request will be considered individually to establish whether an exemption applies.
12.3 Where the Authority does refuse a request to disclose information under the Act, a written explanation will be provided setting out the exemptions relied on by the Authority for withholding the information and the relevant appeal procedures.
back to enforcement
