Written question asked by Cat Smith (Labour) on Monday, 21 March 2016, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 24 March 2016 (named day). It was answered by Lord Wharton of Yarm (Conservative) on Thursday, 24 March 2016 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Fracking: Planning Permission

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, if she will ensure that the final determination on fracking applications is made by local authorities.

Answer: Local authorities lead the process for the consideration of planning applications for shale gas exploration under the Town and Country Planning regime. Under this regime an applicant has a right of appeal to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government in clearly specified circumstances. The Government has taken steps to ensure this locally led regime is effective, as set out in Written Ministerial Statements of 16 September, HCWS201 and HCWS202. Community involvement in planning applications and people’s safety and the environment will remain paramount.

Secondary information