Overnight it has been drawn to my attention that someone who is objecting to the planned new prison has raised concerns with ERYC regards the 8 to 10 day back log of uploading objections to the ERYC Planning Portal.

ERYC Planning must always conduct the consultation period for all applications in an appropriate manner. Not to do so exposes them to a possible Judicial Review.

A fundamental aspect of a consultation process is that everyone must have adequate time to read all objections as this then can shape any objection they may wish to submit.

To ensure due process is followed, and is also seen to be followed, I have requested ERYC to extend the consultation period by two weeks.