Freedom of information (FOI) disclosure log

Date Sent: August 25, 2026

Conclusion:

Description: My request concerns Wakefield Council's decision in June 2025 to reverse its earlier policy (implemented on or around 14 May 2025) that restricted public comments from being viewed on the online planning portal. Specifically, I am requesting the following recorded information held by the Council: 1. Records of the number and nature of representations and formal complaints received by the Council between 14 May 2025 and 17 June 2025 from members of the public or elected councillors, regarding the Council’s decision to end all publication of public comments on planning applications. 2. Copies of any GDPR impact assessments, risk analysis, or legal briefing notes prepared by or for the Council’s Data Protection Officer, regarding compliance with Data Protection Act 2018 in the restoration of public comments. 3. Any data or benchmarking reports held by the planning department comparing Wakefield Council's planning portal publication policy with neighbouring local authorities. 4. Minutes or notes taken during any meetings held between Members of the Council or Council employees and any individuals or community groups registering objections before 17 June 2025, plus any briefing notes, reports, or advisory papers prepared for the Cabinet meeting on 17 June 2025, relating particularly to the restoration of transparency in the planning process. 5. Statements or press releases by the Council, explaining the reasons why a decision been taken to reverse its previous policy.

Attachments: FOI_Response_868.doc