The West of England has published a 'Planning Toolkit' which outlines a vision for a more positive and consistent planning process based on collaboration and engagement.
The Planning Toolkit sets out the culture, values and behaviours which will underpin how the four unitary authorities and developers will work together and includes some practical steps aimed at improving the way large scale and complex planning applications are handled. It also promotes good practice on working more consistently and efficiently on decision making.
The Planning Toolkit enables the changing culture within each Council to be more positive and business like. Major developers support the toolkit because it will ensure earlier and more effective engagement with Councils and local communities. The West of England LEP has endorsed the toolkit because it will help to deliver its targets for jobs and economic growth.
For more information on how the toolkit was developed contact its author, Ian Collinson on 07792 503738 or email him at: [email protected]
“Will the Localism Bill give community empowerment to property and planning applications” comments Dean Hutton. Consultation has always been a requirement of those wishing to pursue the building of infrastructure projects, were they developers or councils. The consultation process has to change as the Localism Bill demands more engagement with the local communities it affects. The first point is that Councils have to get better at engaging with their communities. The government’s empowerment agenda means that they have a duty to inform, consult and involve their stakeholders more.
Councils will have to improve their reputation and build trust among their residents, councils need to demonstrate that they offer value for money and keep their residents well informed.
Effective communications is also fundamental to promoting better community relations and should be mainstreamed throughout the council’s communications planning. The second point is that the Localism Bill will ensure that developers will have to engage with communities at an earlier stage with more work-up schemes, this will encourage engagement rather than the normal tick box consultation.
Listening rather than talking will now be an essential part of the process of securing planning permission for developers and working closer with local authorities.
Sillson’s 35 years of experience in community consultation helps clients engage with local communities, seeks out local support and guides the way through all the stakeholders’ requirements. www.sillson.com