Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

New planning rules come into force this week.

The government has made it easier for developers to change the use of certain buildings.

Business owners and developers no longer need permission to change the use of certain buildings from one use to another for up to two years.

Premises used as independent shops could become coffee shops, payday loan outlets or betting shops without the need for any public consultation.

In addition, it will be possible for offices to be converted into flats.

The government claims to be committed to 'localism'. This being so, why doesn't the government allow the local authorites to decide which of these new rules to implement?

It would seem that Westminster is only committed to letting local people decide issues when the government thinks we can be trusted to arrive at the 'right' decision...