The influence of the courts

The courts can have a considerable influence on the operation of the planning system in the UK in instances where a consistent approach is taken to passing judgements in a number of cases dealing with the same point. Over recent years, for example, there has been a succession of cases dealing with the scope and adequacy of reasons given in decision letters from the secretary of state for the environment. Other rulings have provided guidance on when the courts are likely to intervene in the planning process.