Decision details

Purpose of Report: The report assesses the first year of operation of the fee based planning advice service, and makes recommendations upon the continuation of the service and the fee levels.

Members will be asked to note the assessment and to decide whether the service will continue and the charges involved.

RESOLVED:       (i)      That, subject to minor amendment in

respect of bullet point 3 to clarify that where detailed or complex specialist input is required, a specified additional charge may be levied at the outset, option (c) as set out in the report be approved i.e.:-

·        Refinement and enhancement of the service combined with modest increase of the fees to recover more of the costs of provision as required in the budget

·        Removal of second charge for follow up queries and add listed building advice category

·        Introduction of fees for ongoing schemes where no charge has been made for the last 12 months; establishment of “retainer”; fees for regular developers and organisations in the city, and provision for additional charges to be levied where significant detailed or complex specialist input becomes necessary. 

(ii)      That the schedule of fees, as set out in Annex 6 of the report, be approved.

REASON:  In order to continue to provide a consistent and structured approach to enquiries, within the required timeframe.