Mark Whitehead 06 June 2019

Auditors urges planning services to improve capacity and resilience

Planning services in Wales are struggling against funding cuts and a lack of resources, according to the official auditor.

A report by the Auditor General for Wales says funding for planning services have been halved in real terms in the last ten years and the number of trainees has fallen, raising concerns over the long-term sustainability of services.

It also highlights a survey finding that more than two thirds of people feel their local planning authorities are not effectively engaging with them.

The Effectiveness of Local Planning Authorities in Wales says authorities should review building control fees to ensure they reflect the actual cost of the service and make it self-funding.

It recommends that they should improve the transparency of planning meetings by holding them at appropriate times, webcasting and providing opportunities for people to address them.

Auditor General for Wales, Adrian Crompton, said: 'Good planning is essential for more vibrant and sustainable communities, but clear vision is needed in order for Wales to thrive.

'I am concerned that most local planning authorities have not clearly defined how planning services contribute to the wellbeing of people and communities.

'My recommendations are designed to help improve capacity and resilience, work towards better engagement with the public, and set a clear, ambitious vision that shows how planning can help to improve wellbeing.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Data, Monitoring and Citizen Science Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 10 £37,035 to £40,476 p.a. (Pay Award Pending)
We are looking for an organised and reliable individual to join our team here at the North Pennines National Landscape in Stanhope for a period of 15 Stanhope
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Enhanced Teaching Assistant

Durham County Council
£25,584 - £27,711 pro rata
Enhanced Teaching Assistant Grade 5, £25,584 - £27,711 pro rata 37 hours per week, Term Time only + 2 weeks Permanent     Required from 1st September Ferryhill
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Structures Commissioner

Derbyshire County Council
Grade 14 £53,166 - £59,080 per annum (Pay Award Pending)
We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our team as the Structures Commissioner. Derbyshire
Recuriter: Derbyshire County Council

Rough Sleeper Outreach Officer - WMF2139e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£31,067 - £31,586
We have an excellent opportunity for a motivated candidate to apply for the role of Rough Sleeper Outreach Officer. Penrith, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Customer Operations Assistant

Wyre Borough Council
£12.26 Per Hour
Marine Hall is a vibrant and dynamic venue dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for our audiences and customers. Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire
Recuriter: Wyre Borough Council
Linkedin Banner