Figures released by Communities and Local Government (CLG) predict that by 2008 there will be more than 15,000 online applications annually across the region, compared with fewer than 200 in 2004.
Wokingham Borough Council, for instance, is expected to handle 400 applications online in the current year - up from 100 in 2006/7. Close behind in the number of applications expected to be handled electronically are Kent County Council, Kennet District Council and Reading Borough Council.
Mark Cupit, development control manager at Wokingham Borough Council, said:
"Wokingham has been keen to promote the online planning application service and we are delighted at the enthusiastic response from our users. We hope the trend continues as there are benefits to all in terms of time and cost saving. It is unusual to have an initiative where there is such a clear win-win for authorities, agents and applicants."
Approximately 650,000 planning applications are received each year in England and local authorities are predicting that over one in six will be received online, saving paper and time, by the end of this year. A big increase in the number of housing developments and homeowners carrying out home improvements to increase the value of their property, coupled with the broadband revolution and improved access to local authority websites, have been key factors.
People are using the web not only to make applications online, but also to find out more about what others are planning to build in their area. Increasingly they are using technology to make sure that their views are heard on planning matters ranging from applications submitted by neighbours to proposed major developments.
Online planning is one of a range of local authority services now provided online. In recognition that customers now want information about council services round the clock, their websites now provide details or application forms for school admissions, waste collection, bill payments, jobs, library book renewals and electoral registration.
CLG today launched a campaign to highlight the new planning services available through local authority websites. These are now available in every part of England. The print and radio adverts feature a house that has been acquired for development and highlight the ease with which residents can now find more details about local developments.
Local Government Minister, Angela Smith said:
"The online planning services of 95 per cent of local planning authorities are rated as 'good' or 'excellent'. Despite the advantages, some planning agents and members of the public are still unaware of the services on offer and are not yet taking them up.
Through the 'Connect to your Council' Campaign this month we are encouraging take-up of online planning services so that far more people can benefit from the real advantages."
National advertising for the latest phase of the 'Connect to your council' campaign starts this week and runs until 3rd July. The Campaign is designed to raise public awareness of online council services. It was initially launched in May 2006, with schools admissions being added to the roster of online council services for second phase activity in September 2006.
People going to the campaign website (the link is available below) will need only to enter a post code, or town or street name, to be taken directly to the relevant service page of the local council website.
