Over 120 local councils are looking to install the online self-service planning tool that could move the planning system from long text documents to an interactive map
The trial of this online self-service planning tool could forever affect how people apply for planning permission(Image credit: Getty Images)
A trial for an online self-service planning tool has been launched in three local councils that could offer a completely new way of applying for planning permission.
Tewkesbury Council, Camden Council and Berkshire Council have installed a interactive map that allows residents to check whether their proposed project requires planning permission or if it qualifies under permitted development rights.
The councils are working with the Department for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing's Open Digital Planning system that it is hoped will speed up planning applications and eventually be used by homeowners to apply for planning permission.
How does the online self-service planning tool work?
The system, Open Digital Planning, allows applicants to enter their address and an interactive map will tell them the boundaries to their property, size of their property and the type of their property using Geographic Information System (GIS) data.
It then allows those thinking of renovating or extending their property to draw how much they would like to extend their property and after asking a few questions the service tells applicants whether the plans would qualify under permitted development rights.
Information includes everything from whether you need listed building consent, if it is in a flood risk zone, Article 4 zone, or conservation area, as well as including all of the planning constraints that don't apply for each property.
The tool is currently free for homeowners to use. However, the answers are for guidance only and do not form a formal response from the council and it is recommended that people seek a Lawful Development Certificate for confirmation that any works don’t require permission.
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It is hoped that later this year people will be able to apply for planning permission straight from the online self-service planning tool as well as eventually helping councils pursue enforcement breaches.
The online self-service planning tool tells applicants whether their projected plans need planning permission and what constraints could affect their project(Image credit: Tewkesbury Council)
Why is this being trialled?
The online self-service planning tool dates back to a government planning white paper ‘Planning for the future’ from August 2020 where then Housing Minister Christopher Pincher sought to streamline the planning system.
The online service was hoped to be trialled in 10 local councils to assess how digital tools could improve the planning system as well as moving away from long text documents to an interactive map.
Christopher Pincher stated in 2021: "We want to use digital technology to make the planning system fit for the 21st century and empower people from all backgrounds to get involved in decisions that impact their communities.
"From scannable QR codes giving people local planning information straight to their mobile devices, to interactive online maps, these digital pilots will help us create a more accessible and transparent system and ensure people are informed, engaged and can have their say."
Local Government Association Chairman Cllr James Jamieson also said: "Councils want communities to be able to shape and define the area they live in, and support measures to enhance public participation in the planning process through a more digital service.
"This will help to make the planning system more accessible and efficient, and we look forward to working with government to ensure that all residents can engage in the planning process."
Does your council have this service?
As this system is currently being trialled it is currently only being used in four councils, with Buckinghamshire Council being the first to use it in 2022.
However, Tewkesbury Council, as well as Camden Council and Berkshire Council believe they have improved the service to provide more accurate and detailed information.
It is believed that there are over 120 local authorities looking to install the system as part of their planning services.
You can check the planning portal to find out if your local planning authority has introduced the online self-service planning tool.
The Planning Portal also uses an miniguide interactive map to guide homeowners as to whether certain projects require planning permission but this is not tailored to each local area and is more of a general guide.
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
