Issue - meetings

The purpose of this report is to provide the Executive Member with an update on planning enforcement cases and the current issues facing the enforcement team.

Resolved: That the contents of the report be noted.

Reason: To ensure the Executive Member is aware of the work currently being undertaken in Planning Enforcement. 

The Executive Member considered a report that provided an update on planning enforcement cases and the current issues facing the enforcement team.

The Head of Development Services provided an update, noting that:

·        In 2021 there were 606 new planning enforcement cases and 648 were closed. 7 Enforcement Notices were served and 107 cases were not expedient to pursue. 28 cases were found to be permitted development and 169 were found to be not in breach of planning control. 68 breaches were rectified following work undertaken by the enforcement team and 7 were granted planning permission.

·        There was currently 36 enforcement cases awaiting the outcome of a planning application. 

·        A total of 496 investigations remained open.

·        Three new Enforcement Officers had been recruited and cases were now being progressed.

The Executive Member acknowledged the workforce challenges over the last 12 months and welcomed the new recruitments to enable the team to be in a stronger position.

In response to the speaker’s comments, Officers confirmed they were progressing to resolve the issues at The Residence.

Resolved: That the contents of the report be noted.

Reason: To ensure the Executive Member was aware of the work currently being undertaken in Planning Enforcement.