To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on her Department's work following any recommendations relevant to her Department from the High Street Task Force’s report, Delivering a 21st Century High Street.

Of the 14 recommendations contained within the High Street Task Force Report, 4 relate to the work and responsibilities of my Department to varying degrees.

Recommendation 1 concerns Executive support for our cities and city regions, my Department remains committed to ensuring that through the delivery of its r functions in relation to water, transport and planning, it supports the wider efforts of government in reinvigorating town centres and high streets across the North.

In relation to Recommendation 5, engagement is ongoing with officials in the Department for Communities, to encourage the incorporation of nature-based sustainable drainage interventions within new public realm schemes. Discussions will continue as policy development work in this area progresses.

Recommendation 6 is relevant to my Department given its plan oversight function as councils bring forward their local plan documents. Whilst councils are sovereign autonomous planning authorities with ultimate responsibility for the delivery of their planning functions and wider powers, my officials will continue to encourage councils to bring forward appropriate local responses to issues arising in their areas, such as the challenges facing city and town centres.

Recommendation 11 relates to the operation of the planning system. My Department is committed to ensuring that the planning system operates to the benefit of all, and officials will continue working closely with key stakeholders through the Planning Improvement Programme to improve processes and increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the system. Key areas of focus include changes to secondary legislation; measures to improve speed and efficiency of local development plan production; improving the statutory consultee process; working with NILGA to support elected members in their important decision-making role; strengthening the capability and capacity of the planning workforce; and the development and delivery of the Independent Inspectors project to provide assistance and support to the work of the Planning Appeals Commission.