In his last letter as Chief Planner, Steve Quartermain CBE urged Local Authorities to keep the wheels of the Planning machine turning, saying: ‘Be practical, be pragmatic and let’s plan for the recovery.’
He asked decision-makers to employ ‘all options available’, including the delegation of committee decisions where appropriate, and the use of technology-based discussions and consultations. He reminded Councils that the Government will be introducing legislation to allow committee meetings to be held virtually for a temporary period.
We’re excited (if somewhat bemused) to find that Seaxburh is ahead of the curve, and already has two virtual stakeholder engagement and consultation programmes underway, including an online public exhibition. It’s proving so efficient and effective that we can’t help but wonder if this might be the beginning of a new normal.
It’s a brave but also a fun new world!
Image c/o Cardiff University.
