Authorities achieve Smarter Planning Champion status

In the last few weeks four local planning authorities have achieved Smarter Planning Champion status. They are Newcastle City Council, Northumberland County Council, Thurrock Council and most recently Southwark Council.

As part of the Smarter Planning scheme we work with local authorities to streamline their processes and introduce new electronic ways of working. These include:

• Updating website content to encourage a channel shift towards online self-service for the submission of applications. To ensure your local authority is using the correct Portal links see our best practice guide here.
• Signposting the council’s online planning application register as the authoritative source for engaging in the planning application process for citizens, consultees and applicants
• Endorsing the Planning Portal online application service as their preferred method of submission via a communication campaign to planning professionals, agents and citizens
• Promoting best practice guidance for application submission and local requirements
• Communicating electronically both internally and externally throughout the determination of applications
• Offering online fee payment or alternatives options for quicker application registration and validation
• Working towards a paperless office

We currently have 47 LPAs that have achieved ‘Champion’ status and are keen to get 50!

A map of the ‘Champion’ LPAs can be accessed here.

If you want to learn more about becoming a Smarter Planning Champion you can find more information on the Portal and register your interest.