Member

First, we are repealing the statutory duty to consult at pre-application stage. This makes the amendment unworkable in its current form. Secondly, it is not necessary to legislate to achieve this policy objective. If an applicant for development consent considers that the use of a digital twin would be beneficial to their engagement, they are able to make this available. Moreover, if we were to require or encourage the use of such tools, we could do so through existing powers. The Government have the power to make regulations in relation to the processing and provision of planning data through Sections 84 and 85 of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023. Finally, I understand that some industry experts have expressed concerns about the use of this technology, relating to commercial sensitivity and security considerations. Further policy development and engagement is needed before taking such an approach.