Annette Brooke MP calls on Government not to take Council Powers on new Superstores.

1.59.55pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 17th May 2007

Local Liberal Democrat MP Annette Brooke is calling on the government not to reduce local council's decision making powers over huge new superstore developments.

Small businesses in Poole, Purbeck and East Dorset have come under increasing pressure from big out-of-town superstores, but the government is now considering removing a crucial tool our local councils have in defending the diversity of our high streets.

The government's review of planning suggested that they scrap the 'needs test', which allows local planning authorities to decide supermarket planning applications based on need, but local Liberal Democrats have hit back saying that scrapping it would stop the council objecting to more distant supermarkets taking business away from local shops.

Annette Brooke MP said,

"If our councils cannot make a sensible local decision, taking into account local circumstances, what is the point of a local planning committee? Local Democracy must be strengthened not undermined.

The government is making it easier for big businesses to drive local shops, like the Post Office and newsagents, out of business.

"I'm calling on the government not to scrap the 'supermarket needs test' and to give power back to our local community so we can save our town centres and help them grow into the hub of our sustainable, vibrant community."

Notes to Editors:

The government's Planning White Paper is expected to be published in the week commencing 14th May

It is expected that the government will scrap their 'supermarket needs test' and stop local authorities considering whether a new supermarket is needed when deciding on planning applications.

Liberal Democrats are calling on the government to keep the 'supermarket needs test' and allow local authorities to work to build sustainable communities with appropriate and needed development.

Controversial Applications have occurred on the outskirts of Wareham and currently there is the ongoing controversial 'Waitrose' application in Wimborne.