(a)          Decision(s)

That the proposals, which include the creation of additional posts, for the Council’s Development Management service, as outlined in the Cabinet report, be approved.

(b)          Reason(s) for Decision(s)

The Development Management service at AVDC continues to contend with the combined challenges of a national shortage of skilled planners alongside a very high workload that comes from Aylesbury Vale being an area of significant housing growth.

The proposals to set up a small team of staff who will undertake proactive communications with applicants will improve the customer service provided by the team and provide reassurance to applicants.

(c)          Alternative Options Considered

The alternative would be to wait until the full results were known of a series of reviews and workshops underway in the service identifying further initiatives to combat the challenges the service faces and present them as part of package of measures.  However, as this proposal will directly improve customer experience for applicants and can be implemented quickly it was decided that it could be taken forward as a stand alone proposal at this stage.

(d)          Relevant Scrutiny Committee

Environment and Living

(e)          Conflicts of Interest / Dispensation(s)

            None.