Greater public involvement in a more accountable planning process is the main improvement in the Town Planning White Bill, unveiled yesterday, the Government says.
The long-awaited review of the Town Planning Ordinance will also empower the Town Planning Board to establish special inquiries to consider objections and require members to declare their interests when appointed and in office.
The White Bill would establish a certification system as a prerequisite to building, and require the Town Planning Board and Planning Authority to meet processing deadlines.
Secretary for Planning Environment and Lands Bowen Leung Po-wing said: 'The revised consultation process is a big improvement over the present system where the public could only comment on a draft plan after publication.' Planning studies will be available for public consultation for three months prior to the drafting of outline zoning plans. Comments can be made in support of or in opposition to the draft plans and they will be posted for a month for further consultation.
However, under the bill, the board can only amend the plan in line with objections which have not been withdrawn if no expressions of support have been lodged.
Unlike parties in support of a draft plan, those objecting need to declare their interests. Mr Leung said the aim of allowing parties to support plans was to provide a balance of views.
