Bracknell

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is making a number of changes to its planning service over the coming months.

To comply with Government advice to prevent identity fraud there will be changes to how Bracknell planning documents can be viewed online.

Bracknell Residents will be able to continue viewing public documents relating to current planning applications and appeals, but personal details like signatures, telephone numbers and email addresses will no-longer be visible. Only the decision notice and plans will be displayed on approved planning applications.

The Bracknell Council is also introducing charging for pre-application discussions with planning officers from November 1.

Providing advice on whether planning permission is required or the likelihood of permission being granted is an additional service provided by the Council. By asking residents and developers to pay to see planning officers means the Council will still be able to maintain high levels of service.

Commercial developers will be charged on a sliding scale of up to £1,000, depending on the size of the development, but enquiries from householders will attract a discounted flat rate charge of £20.

There will be no charges for essential works to meet the needs of a Bracknell disabled person or relating to listed buildings or conservation areas.

By formalising the pre-application process, the Bracknell Council hopes it will lead to easy identification for the need of specialist information - including listed buildings, trees or flood prevention; faster decisions on planning applications; fewer unacceptable planning applications being submitted; and more certainty about the final outcome.

Additionally, from December 1, there will be a £50 administration charge if amendments to planning applications are submitted.

Finally, new planning application forms are being introduced to help the Council prepare for a change in planning laws next year, the online application facility will also be improved in the New Year.

Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: "The Council's works very hard to maintain a quality planning service, which provides good and reliable advice to applicants.

"By formalising the pre-applications service, we hope we will be able to save everybody time and money."

For more information about the changes to the planning service, visit the Council's planning web pages or call 01344 352000.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council