Putting E-Planning On The Map

Exmoor National Park Authority has just been recognised as 'excellent' by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for the quality of its planning services available electronically.  

A survey undertaken in December 2005 of all local planning authorities in the country scored authorities out of a total of 24 points depending on the level of planning services available to the public using the internet to access their web sites. Exmoor scored a full 24 points and, along with 5 other National Park Authorities, was rated as 'excellent'.

The Planning page on the National Park Authority's web site www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk sets out in an easy-to-use contents table the full range of services which the public can access without leaving their home. These  include viewing an interactive Local Plan map, the full Local Plan text and policies, checking on the progress of all submitted planning applications, submission of planning applications on line (including payment of fee), making a representation on a planning application and the full planning committee reports and minutes every month.

Chris France, head of planning for the National Park Authority said: "This has been a real team effort and we are delighted that all the hard work has paid off. Of course, those who still prefer to talk through a planning application, or any planning matter can still visit or phone the National Park Authority’s offices at Dulverton and make an appointment to speak to a planning officer. There are also two weekly planning advice surgeries located in Lynton and Porlock, where planning officers are available on Monday and Wednesday morning respectively."