In the wake of ?environmental terrorism? at a Somerset beach, Planning director Rudolph Hollis stepped forward yesterday to announce his department is reviewing ways to beef up the enforcement of Planning laws.

And evidence of the alleged Planning violations at the beach at Gilbert?s Bay, where PLP trustee Henry Talbot bulldozed through natural rock formations and longtail nests, shaved away a portion of the cliff face and cleared land which was designated as ?untouchable? woodland reserve, is being sent to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

After neighbours and environmentalists called foul on Mr. Talbot and Shadow Environment Minister Cole Simons demanded an end to ?environmental terrorism? and a crackdown on Planning laws, Mr. Hollis said the Department was prepared to take ?the necessary action?.

?The Department recognises that the current enforcement regulations are tedious and time consuming,? he said yesterday.

?We are working on establishing a more direct method of dealing with persons who violate the Planning laws. New guidelines will come out of the review. Notwithstanding the review, the Department of Planning continues to address Planning violations.

?In the case mentioned, the enforcement officer was on site the day the complaint was brought to the attention of the Department, collecting evidence which will be sent to the DPP?s office. We have put the offender on notice that all work that does not have Planning approval must stop.

?The Department of Planning, in conjunction with the Ministry of the Environment, has taken positive steps to maintain a delicate balance in protecting our natural habitats and the many eco-systems while taking into account the booming construction industry.

?However, in dealing with ?environmental terrorists?, punitive laws alone are not a resolution.

?To this end, technical officers from the Department have held meetings with key stakeholders such as insurance companies and lending institutions to help us find ways to deter Planning violators.

?The public can be assured that the Department is very concerned about Planning and Building violations and is prepared to take the necessary action. We anticipate that, after the review, we will be able to take more tangible action.?