A DIGITAL transformation of planning systems at Stratford and Warwick district councils aims to streamline the planning process.
The two councils are among ten local authorities chosen by the government to test the use of digital tools designed to make plans map-based and accessible online. The scheme was proposed as part of a Planning White Paper last year.
The proposal aims to enable residents to engage with planning in their area, which it is hoped will help get homes built quicker.
Councils will test how existing local plans translate into the new system, including moving away from long text documents to an interactive map with accompanying annotation document, and the adaptation of existing site allocation policies into the proposed land categorisation format.
Community engagement will continue to play a key role for ensuring that the right levels of growth are identified to meet the needs of the community.
Stratford District Council economy spokesman Coun Daren Pemberton said: “I am delighted that Stratford District Council and Warwick District Council working together have been selected as ’pathfinder’ local authorities who will test and shape how local plans better meet residents needs by increasing access and local accountability through new approaches to digital engagement. This is also a demonstration of how, by working together, we are able to punch above our individual weight and secure access to new innovations and investment from Central Government.”
Economy spokesman for Warwick District Council John Cooke added: “The Planning White Paper published last year highlights Government’s desire for Local Plans to be fully digitised, more visual, web-based, and based on the latest digital technology. It also indicates that this should improve public engagement in the Plan making process. I am therefore delighted that the two South Warwickshire Councils are amongst a select few authorities to have been chosen to test the use of digital tools, thus leading the way in this area.”
