Issue - items at meetings - Agreement to schedule of charges for pre-application planning advice

Report of the Acting Executive Director for Environment, Development & Housing (copy attached).

That the Committee agree the schedule of charges for pre-application planning advice set out in Appendix 1 and the timeframe for implementation set out in paragraphs 3.5. and 3.6.

142.1    The Committee considered a report of the Acting Executive Director for Environment, Development & Housing in relation to Agreement to Schedule of Charges for Pre-Application Planning Advice. The report sought approval for a schedule of charges for pre-application planning advice, together with a timeframe for implementation following the resolution of the Committee on 15 October 2015.

142.2    Councillor G. Theobald explained that he was supportive of the principle of the report, and was of the view that this would lead to greater certainty around the planning process. In response to his queries it was explained that Officers had also been mindful of the level to set the lower charges for householders; however, these needed to cover a number of areas and the scheme provided householders options in relation to the level of pre-application advice they could pay for. It was also added that the scheme sought only achieve full costs recovery, and those making planning applications could still use the advice line free of charge. Councillor G. Theobald expressed concern in relation to the rate of the fee for householder applicants.

142.3    Councillor Mac Cafferty welcomed the report and stated that it helped provide greater certainty for applicants.

142.4    The Chair then put the recommendations to the vote; the report was carried with 6 in support and 4 abstentions; Councillors: G. Theobald, Janio, A. Norman and Wealls asked that their abstentions be recorded.

142.5    RESOLVED – That the Committee agree the schedule of charges for pre-application planning advice set out in Appendix 1 and the timeframe for implementation set out in paragraphs 3.5. & 3.6.