Three Rivers District Council

Discovery funding would enable us to explore the most efficient options for paper-free working, providing remote system access from planning site visits and increased use of electronic communications. Investment in this would enable an authority to reduce expenditure on printing and posting, but also make the administration side of planning applications more streamlined and efficient, giving Officers more time to concentrate on processing applications and working with developers to deliver the housing that is much needed.

Remote working technology would enable officers to take photographs and record site visits, with this information automatically uploaded to our systems. Such access to technology would also enable officers to contact applicants whilst on site if there are any concerns with their proposals, helping to be positive and proactive in providing early engagement and the ability for applicants to rectify fundamental concerns prior to a determination or a Planning Committee.

Benefits the project could bring

Reduced amount of time spent doing administration back in the office following site visits (as notes already in system/photos automatically uploaded) along with reducing number of planning applications to be re-consulted or re-submitted, therefore reducing administration, ensuring more ‘right first time’ and reducing costs of writing repeatedly to Consultees.