In March 2021, iESE was engaged to undertake a review of the Council’s Planning Service to develop a new vision and mission that encapsulated both Members’ and officers’ aspirations.  The report identified the key aspects that were reviewed and proposed three main headline recommendations, as outlined at Appendix A to the report, together with an Action Plan.  Appendices B and C identified immediate and long-term actions / recommendations respectively, and Appendix D detailed work that had already been started, implemented and / or completed.  A Communications Plan had been developed to improve internal and external communications.  To deliver on and manage the recommendations proposed, a cross departmental team would be established.

The review had highlighted significant pressures experienced within the Planning Service which included long term recruitment and IT issues.  Work / monitoring would be ongoing, as in future, it was essential that the Planning Service delivered a customer focused and reliable service.  Additional investment would be met from the Capital Programme.

Members were reminded that additional resources had been enlisted to assist with the backlog of outstanding and new planning applications.

RESOLVED: That the outcome of the Planning Service review by iESE and the consequent action plan be noted.