News In Focus
29 April 2009
Online planning system launched
The Scottish Government has launched a new online planning system that will enable people to apply for developments, appeal against decisions and track the progress of proposals.
Finance Secretary John Swinney said that the £11.2 million ePlanning initiative will make Scotland's planning system simpler, faster and more accessible, providing a consistent level of service throughout the country.
It is anticipated that ePlanning will save planning authorities £16.7 million over 10 years, and save users, including developers, a further £43.8 million.
Develpoed in partnership with councils and public agencies, ePlanning will provide:
- A facility to apply online for planning permission or an appeal
- More planning information online, allowing the progress of applications and appeals to be tracked and decisions to be better understood
- A mechanism to consult electronically with statutory consultees
- Information on local development plans
Mr Swinney said: "The launch of ePlanning, one of the actions detailed in our economic recovery programme, will benefit planning authorities, communities, applicants and the business community.
"It will produce significant cost savings for councils and applicants, including the development industry, at a time when Scotland is feeling the effects of the global downturn, producing a system that is easier to use and process.
"This is a significant step in our drive to ensure Scotland's planning system acts as an aid rather than a barrier to increasing sustainable economic growth."
Click here to visit the ePlanning site.