Published on Wednesday 06 May 2020
BCP Council has processed over 200 planning applications and over 100 tree works applications in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole since the start of the COVID19 pandemic.
Following lockdown measures introduced by the Government and significant changes to normal day to day working practices, the Council has been exploring ways to ensure residents can continue to have a say in development within their communities.
Whilst all applications have been available for comment online, they will soon be advertised again in residential areas following a brief interlude. This includes displaying applications in visible locations such as lampposts as well as notification via post.
With social distancing guidelines still in place, the first virtual meeting of BCP Council’s Planning Committee was held on Thursday 30 April 2020. This was recorded and available for residents to view live.
Councillor Margaret Phipps, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, said:
"The planning process is important as it shapes new development in the local area. It is therefore vital for our residents that the process continues with as little interruption as possible and the public are aware of what is happening. I am pleased that we have been able to adapt to the current situation by holding our first virtual Planning Committee meeting last week.’’