Virtual public consultation - Local Authorities in England given new powers

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.

Or click here to find out more.