Enhanced ePlanning goes live in the Highlands on Tuesday 23rd February

16th February 2010

An enhanced online system enabling people to submit planning applications, appeals against decisions, and track progress of proposals in the Highlands goes live on Tuesday 23rd February.

Applications will be processed electronically by a team of seven staff based at the Council's electronic processing centre in Inverness. Scanned and validated applications will be available to view on the Council's web site:
http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/

Applicants and agents can still submit planning applications by post however an increasing number of applicants are using the online facility which is proving to be a fast and efficient method of submitting applications.

The Highland Council is one of a number of Local Authorities taking part in a Scottish Government initiative aimed at making the planning system simpler, faster and more efficient, providing a consistent level of service throughout the country.

ePlanning provides:

* The facility to apply online for planning permission or an appeal;
* More planning information online, allowing the progress of applications and appeals to be tracked;
* A mechanism to consult electronically with statutory consultees

Councillor Ian Ross, Chairman of the Council's Planning Environment and Development Committee, said: "After months of preparation, we are now ready to go live with eplanning, which will streamline the planning process and enhance the way we deliver our services. In a rural area, such as the Highlands, the benefits will be all the more apparent.

Customers can submit online a planning application using the new web access. Maps, plans and other associated documents can be attached. Planning fees can also be made online using a credit or debit card."

For customer convenience, payments associated with an online applications can also be made using cheque or cash at any of The Highland Council's 37 Service Points or 8 Area Planning offices or by using the Council's credit/debit telephone line quoting the online
reference number of the application.

Full details of these payment options along with Frequently Asked Questions on how to use and access the new online systems are on the Highland Council's website
http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenvironment/planning/eplanning/faqs.htm

or help is available by contacting the ePlanning hotline number 01349 886608 or emailing eplanning[AT]highland.gov.uk