Internet generation drives e-planning services in North East

There will be a dramatic rise in homeowners, architects and builders using the online planning process in the North East this coming year, according to figures from the Communities and Local Government (CLG).

And in local authorities where e-planning is already well established - such as Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council - it's got wholehearted approval from residents.

Approximately 650,000 planning applications are received each year in England and local authorities are predicting that over one in six will be received online, saving paper and time, by the end of this year.

A big increase in the number of housing developments and homeowners carrying out home improvements to increase their property's value, coupled with the broadband revolution and improved access to local authority websites have been key factors.

Citizens are not only using the web to make applications online, but also to find out more about what is being planned in their area. Increasingly they are using technology to make sure that their views are heard on planning matters ranging from applications submitted by neighbours to proposed major developments.

Planning is one of a range of local authority services now provided online. In recognition that customers now want information about council services on a 24/7 basis, their websites now provide details or application forms for school admissions, waste collection, bill payments, jobs, library book renewals and electoral registration.

CLG today launched a campaign to highlight the new planning services available through local authority websites. The services are now available in every part of England. The print and radio adverts feature a house that has been acquired for development and highlight the ease with which residents can now find more details about local developments.

In the North East, the estimated total number of online planning applications has increased dramatically in the last four years, with an estimated 6,418 this year. The biggest rise has been seen in Tyne and Wear, where local authorities are projecting a rise from just 50 in 2004 to 4,700 in 2008.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council was the most improved local authority in the country last year for e-planning, and today receives 18 per cent of its applications electronically. Wherever possible the application process is speeded up by electronic consultation.

Penny Furniss, head of planning at Redcar and Cleveland said: "We like to give applicants and others involved in the planning process a choice of ways to contact us. E-planning allows applications to be made at any time of day or night. Members of the public with access to the internet can view applications or our development plans from the comfort of their own homes, even outside normal office hours. We aim to develop the service even further in the coming months. However, for those who still like to phone or call into the office we offer that service too. On Monday evenings we have late opening with a planning officer on duty until 6pm."

Local Government Minister, Angela Smith said: "The online planning services of 95 per cent of local planning authorities are rated as 'good' or 'excellent'. Despite the advantages, some planning agents and members of the public are still unaware of the services on offer and are not yet taking them up. Through the 'Connect to your Council' Campaign this month we are encouraging take-up of online planning services so that far more people can benefit from the real advantages."