Virtual public consultation - Local Authorities in England given new powers
09 April 2020 | 1 min read
Keep your planning application on track
Local Authorities in England have been given new powers to hold public meetings remotely – using video or telephone conferencing technology. Beginning on 4th April, and currently in place until the 7th May 2020, the government has temporarily removed the legal requirement for local authorities to hold public meetings in person; enabling effective and democratic local decision making to continue during the COVID-19 outbreak. Crucially, for the planning and development industry this means that planning committees are free to determine applications remotely.
Remote attendance will need to comply with a series of conditions but it will be up to each local authority to decide how they conduct meetings, how voting procedures work and how to ensure that the public has access.
We recognise the situation you are facing is complex, but solving challenges is what we do best. RPS is here to make it easy for you and ensure your projects can remain on track.
To find out how we can support you to organise or attend a virtual public consultation, contact your local planning team.
About RPS
Founded in 1970, RPS, A Tetra Tech Company (RPS) is a leading global professional services firm of 5,000 consultants and service providers. Operating in 125 countries, working across six continents we define, design and manage projects that create shared value to a complex, urbanising and resource-scarce world.
RPS delivers a broad range of services in six sectors: property, energy, transport, water, defence and government services and resources. Services provided across RPS' six sectors cover twelve service clusters: project and program management, design and development, water services, environment, advisory and management consulting, exploration and development, planning and approvals, health, safety and risk, oceans and coastal, laboratories, training and communications, creative and digital services.
RPS stands out for its clients by using its deep expertise to solve problems that matter, making them easy to understand. Making complex easy.
For further information, please visit www.rpsgroup.com.