THE planning process in Hertsmere could be streamlined following a period of public consultation.

Currently, all “major” or “significant” planning applications in the borough are presented to one of three council planning committees for determination.

But this could all change after the council’s overview and performance committee announced a review of the system this week.

Presently applications will go before either the Potters Bar and Shenley planning committee, the Borehamwood and Elstree planning committee or the Bushey and Aldenham planning committee.

However, Cllr Harvey Cohen, the chairman of the overview and performance committee, said such a structure was rare elsewhere in Hertfordshire and could be overhauled.

“We are looking at our planning meetings to see if our processes meet the needs of the public,” he said.

“The majority of other districts in Hertfordshire have only one planning meeting so we are considering whether this approach would be appropriate for Hertsmere.”

If you have any views on this, write to Cllr Cohen, c/o Democratic Services, Hertsmere Borough Council, Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, WD6 1WA by the end of April.

He can also be contacted by email at cllr.harvey.cohen@hertsmere.gov.uk