Steve Thomas

Chief Executive

Prif Weithredwr

Welsh Local Government Association

Local Government House

Drake Walk

CARDIFF CF10 4LG

Tel: 029 2046 8600

Fax: 029 2046 8601

Cymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru

Tŷ Llywodraeth Leol

Rhodfa Drake

CAERDYDD CF10 4LG

Ffôn: 029 2046 8600

Ffacs: 029 2046 8601

www.wlga.gov.uk

Our Ref/Ein Cyf:

Your Ref/Eich Cyf:

Date/Dyddiad:                                      17.06.14

Please ask for/Gofynnwch am:              Tim Peppin       

Direct line/Llinell uniongyrchol:           02920 468669

Email/Ebost:                                         tim.peppin@wlga.gov.uk

William Powell AM

Petitions Committee Chair

National Assembly for Wales

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff

CF99 1NA

Dear William

RE: Make MTAN Law Petition

Thank for your letter dated March 2014 seeking further comment regarding the application of guidance in the Coal MTAN.

In terms of consistency of application of the guidance in MTAN2, Local Planning Authorities (LPA) in many parts of Wales work collaboratively on Minerals and Waste Planning. In practice, this means officers in one LPA processing applications on behalf of another local authority which results in a more consistent approach. A good example of a collaborative approach is highlighted by an application being dealt with by Caerphilly CBC (CCBC) for a site at Nant Llesg above Rhymney. As a direct result of this application, a meeting was arranged with Mineral Planning Officers from neighbouring LPAs enabling CCBC to draw on their knowledge and experience.

We would reiterate that each case must be dealt with on its own individual merits and that LPAs should have the flexibility to work with applicants to seek the best outcome given the local economic, social and environmental circumstances.

Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any further information.

Yours sincerely

Director of Regeneration & Sustainable Development