Decision details

Purpose of report: The formalisation of arrangements to provide planning and development advice is a key element of the new Development Management service. The proposed changes will impact on applicants and developers. It is envisaged that the proposed new arrangements including fees/charges would come into effect from 1 January 2011.

Members are asked to: Note the proposed changes to the Development Management service and to approve fee/charges for the provision of advice in relation to planning and development.

ITEM DEFERRED TO 30 NOVEMBER EXECUTIVE MEETING: This will enable further benchmarking to be undertaken with other local authorities to ascertain information on the level of possible fees and charges.

RESOLVED: (i)         That Option B be endorsed and that the proposals to introduce the Development Management approach, with charging for the provision of pre-application advice in relation to planning and associated applications, be approved.

REASON:      So that Officers can prepare for the implementation of an improved, customer-orientated approach to the provision of discretionary planning advice.

                        (ii)        That the fees and charges outlined in Annex 2 to the report be approved for implementation from 1 January 2011.

REASON:      So that the continued provision of an enhanced pre-application service can be assured.

                        (iii)       That Officers prepare and publish details of guidelines / protocols explaining the nature and operation of the service and that these be publicised before the new arrangements are implemented.

REASON:      So that developers and agents are aware of the reasons for the introduction of the new service arrangements and understand in advance of implementation how they will operate.

                        (iv)       That a review of the service and arrangements for it be undertaken, with a report to be brought to Executive in January 2012.

REASON:      So that the Executive may be advised of the impact of the proposals and consider any revisions to them as may be deemed necessary.