Paul Davies AM has recently taken part in a Welsh Conservative debate on planning in the Assembly Chamber. The debate, tabled by the Welsh Conservatives called on the Welsh Government to increase the flexibility of the Welsh planning system, streamline and simplify current Welsh planning guidance and increase the say of local communities in the planning system.

Paul Davies said, "I was pleased to take part in a debate which looked at ways of improving the current Welsh planning system. Planning plays an important role in regenerating town centres. There have been concerns regarding the number of vacant shops and premises in town centres, such as Fishguard and Milford Haven. There are also concerns in places such as Haverfordwest, where businesses have felt the negative impact of retail parks being located on the outskirts of town. However, changes to planning and injecting flexibility into the planning system would help the regeneration efforts of areas such as Milford Haven and Fishguard considerably, making it easier for businesses, to relocate."

"I hope that the Welsh Government considers our appeal to simplify the Welsh planning guidance. The Welsh Government has talked a lot about delivery throughout the Fourth Assembly and I very much hope that they deliver a flexible, streamlined and simpler planning system here in Wales that works with local communities."