THE politicians who will decide planning applications for the next three years have been put forward for States approval.

In his first projet, Environment Minister Freddie Cohen has proposed the Constable of St Peter, Tom du Feu, and Trinity Deputy Anne Pryke to sit on the planning applications panel, with Assistant Environment Minister Richard Dupré as chairman.

Senator Cohen is also proposing the Constables of St Saviour and St Helier, Phil Ozouf and Simon Crowcroft respectively, as reserve members.

With the exception of Mr du Feu and Deputy Pryke, the nominees have served on previous planning committees.

The formation of a panel to consider planning applications, and to replace the former planning applications sub-committee, was approved by the States this year.

When the new Planning Law comes into effect in the spring, panel meetings will be held in public.

The majority of planning applications will continue to be determined by officers under delegated powers.

The Minister will retain powers to make planning application decisions, but his main role will be concerned with planning and environment policy.