This is our latest update to the continuing changes to the planning service as we adapt to the restrictions needed during the COVID -19 outbreak.
Local review body
We have held our first meetings of the local review body online, held over Skype, to continue our statutory duty to process relevant appeals. Two have been held successfully and we will be continuing this format.
Development management sub-committee
Similarly, we have continued holding online meetings of the development management sub-committee and these will continue to be held over the summer.
Planning hearing
We have taken part in a virtual planning appeal hearing, run by the Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeals Division. This was the first in Scotland and ran very smoothly in terms of technology. The webcast of the hearing is now available to view.
Weekly list
We have moved the publishing of the weekly list, showing all applications and decisions made, to an online format due to the restrictions on advertising. In addition to this, we are piloting a new interactive map which shows all applications and decisions in each weeks list.
We have received positive feedback on this new way to view planning applications. We would like to thank those of you who sent us your comments, which will help us evaluate the pilot.
Choices for City Plan
The consultation on our next local development plan, Choices for City Plan, received 1800+ responses. A new Development Plan Scheme setting out the timetable for the preparation of the proposed plan will be presented to committee this summer.
Planning help desk
We are now providing a planning help desk service by email at planning@edinburgh.gov.uk. We think this will be particularly useful to businesses looking for advice on planning as they adapt and emerge from lockdown in line with national changes.
Wellbeing survey
We have also carried out a staff wellbeing survey, completed by most of our colleagues, to help us get an idea of how we will support our staff to continue providing services and completing our projects while working from our homes.
We will be continuing to use this blog to provide updates, so please subscribe to receive further updates.
Planning Edinburgh 