In LocalGov.co.uk, 1 September 2016: In response to the committee’s findings, Cllr Neil Clarke, chairman of the District Councils’ Network (DCN) said: ‘The DCN welcomes the Commons Health Committee’s report on pubilc health highlighting the crucial role that planning and licensing, which are central responsibilities of districts councils, play in ensuring better public health outcomes.

‘In its response we hope the Government will recognise the central role of districts councils in public health, including through the planning system, while ensuring that delays are avoided within the wider planning system process going forward.’