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Britain’s “creaking” planning system is driving investors away and threatening economic recovery, a group of leading businessmen declare today. They have thrown their weight behind ministers’ controversial planning reform, arguing that it is vital to simplify the process in favour of new retail, technology and pharmaceutical ventures. In a letter to The Times, they say that the changes — bitterly opposed by countryside groups and environmentalists — are essential to providing jobs and growth. “If we wish this country to remain internationally competitive, if we want the jobs and prosperity that growth brings, we must tackle head-on the sluggish pace and disproportionate costs of planning,” they declare. The 22 signatories includes Simon Wolfson, the chief executive of Next, Sir Stuart Rose, the former Marks & Spencer…
