Simply appealing – First UK electronic planning appeal takes place

An appeal in relation to a planning decision made by Herefordshire Council has become the first to be dealt with using 21st century technology.

Until recently, papers associated with a planning appeals which were being considered by a national body called the Planning Inspectorate, relied on the postal service.

However, since the end of last year, the Planning Inspectorate has offered to consider Enforcement Appeals and Lawful Development Certificate Appeals via e-mail.

This means that anyone wanting to appeal these types of planning decision made by Herefordshire Council can now log on to the Planning Inspectorate's website and complete the forms there and then - from the comfort of their own home.

The first case in the UK to be dealt with this way relates to an appeal in relation the lawful development of land at Coughton, Ross-on-Wye.

The details of the case were also published on line rather than relying on the traditional posting out of correspondence.  The case is published on the Inspectorate's planning portal

"We're delighted to be the first authority to use this service which means a quicker turn around of an appeal and makes life a whole lot easier for the person appealing," said Cllr Phil Edwards, Cabinet Member (Environment).

"The Planning Casework Service, which runs the on-line system for dealing with appeals, provides useful online tools - such as easy-to-use appeal forms - that allow users to send an appeal directly to the Planning Inspectorate."

There are also hints and tips on how to complete the form and how to upload electronic documents or drawings, so users have a better chance to get it right first time.

On top of this, users get e-mailed a receipt to let them know that their appeal has been received.

It allows anyone submitting an appeal to see the papers on line and make comments on them. They can also track their progress in real time and view the decision.

It also means that local authorities, like Herefordshire Council, can complete and submit their appeal questionnaires online for these cases, whilst aiming for increased efficiencies in the planning system.

"We support anything which makes life easier and we're wholly behind this use of new technology to make what can appear very daunting for many people, a simple and easy process," added Cllr Edwards.