Validation Background Update Presented by Ian Papworth to

Validation: Background & Update Presented by Ian Papworth to Agent’s Forum

Topics • Introduction • Background to the team • Where are we now? • Where would we like to be? • Validation topics for future discussion

Introduction • Ian Papworth, am the Technical Support team leader, with overall responsibility for the inputting, registration and Validation of all planning applications. • Took up my recent position in September 2015. • Seen a TSO within the Building Control at SCDC • Also 30 years at the Land Registry dealing with plans/maps relating to title to land.

The TSO Team • Set up in 2015 to take validation from officers and provide a more consistent approach. • The team also deals with appeals • They have validated applications from November 2015 • Training completed in householders validation and the team and are continuing on training on the other types of applications • When the programme is completed we will do refresher training based on any feedback received and the teams needs

Where are we now? • The TSOs are now undertaking the validation of all application types to National and Local requirements, which are on our website. • We have prepared process and checklist to ensure consistency • We have achieved 5 days validation however this has been difficult as the team is still developing. • Our current turn around 10 days and we are working hard to reduce this again • The team have embraced their new ways of working and speed & quality of validation will continue to improve as the team develops.

Where would we like to be? • Our target is to receipt and validate a planning application within 5 working days, hand in hand with quality validation. • How do we achieve this? 1. Continued investment with regards to training the TSOs. 2. Continually assess our processes to ensure they deliver the quality service we are aiming for. 3. Your help.

Main reasons for invalid applications • Recently started monitoring invalid applications, due to cost and implications for resources: • Main reasons: • None or insufficient Design and Access/Heritage statements – When is one needed and what information should it contain. • Location plan/block plan – What does a good one look like? in particular what constitutes “clearly identified” and “a North point”. • Incorrect Fees

Future proposals for management of invalid applications • Refresher workshop on Design and access statements, plans & fees • Continue to monitor reasons of invalid applications and % of invalids received & cost • Review information on our website to ensure our requirements are clear • Considering publishing validation information on line & agents who achieve high rates of valid applications

Thank you • Ian Papworth • Telephone number: 01954 713406 • E mail: ian. papworth@scambs. gov. uk or planning@scambs. gov. uk