Issue - meetings

As part of the annual programme of frontline service reviews, the review for the Planning service is attached.

Members received a performance report on the planning service. It was noted that whilst planning fee income had been lower during 2017/18, it did not necessarily mean that fewer applications had been received. It was acknowledged that whilst there was a target for planning application performance, the service was not able to influence this as it was dependent upon applications submitted.

Members were informed about new regulations being imposed which measured councils on not only the five year housing land supply but also the number of houses actually delivered. Concern was expressed that it would be very difficult to encourage developers to implement their permission and the possibility of incentivising developers by way of review mechanisms or of Homes England using compulsory purchase powers to acquire the land was discussed. The risk of having to accept reduced S106 contributions was highlighted.

Some members wished their concern to be noted that government pressure to approve planning applications meant that members’ ability to reflect the wishes of the local community was diminishing.

In relation to retention of staff, the importance of remuneration on a similar level to other authorities was highlighted and officers outlined initiatives such as implementing a career grade and supporting graduates through post graduate education. The difficulty in recruiting building control officers in competition with private companies which paid higher salaries was also acknowledged.

Officers were thanked for presenting so much information in such a concise report and the report was noted.