New figures show more than 40 per cent of planning applications rejected by North Lanarkshire Council have been overturned by the Scottish Government.
And one party is backing plans to ensure that it becomes law that local authorities have the final say on planning decisions.
Data provided by the Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) Annual Review 2019-22, shows that 44 per cent of appeals reviewed by the Scottish Government were approved in cases involving North Lanarkshire Council.
Conservative Group leader Meghan Gallacher said: “Over their 13 years in charge, SNP ministers have all too often overturned planning decisions made throughout North Lanarkshire.
“Under the Scottish Conservatives, we would ensure that this could no longer happen, and community decisions will always be respected.
“In North Lanarkshire, 44 per cent of planning applications which were rejected by the council have been overturned by the Scottish Government. SNP Ministers have failed to respect community decision-making and not listened to serious objections on many applications.
“The Scottish Conservatives are committed to rebuilding our communities and ensuring they benefit from developments.”
One recent development given to go ahead by the Reporter despite local opposition was a new housing development on the site of Cleland Hospital, pictured above.
Persimmon began work on 86 new homes on the grounds of the hospital after it completed the £10 million purchase of the site from NHS Lanarkshire.
The housebuilder first formally lodged proposals with North Lanarkshire Council two years ago but saw its plans unanimously rejected by the local authority’s planning committee earlier this year.
Following a successful appeal to the decision, the company has moved forward with the land acquisition.
Margo Young was one of several local objectors.
She said: “I don’t think it’s a good thing for decisions to be taken outwith the local area.
“I think that those figures seem particularly high.
“I think the whole planning process needs to be overhauled.”
North Lanarkshire SNP were approached for comment but no response has been received.
