Staying informed about the latest updates in Wigan planning applications is crucial for residents, developers, and stakeholders involved in local development. The Wigan Council has recently implemented several updates to its planning regulations and processes. These updates aim to streamline procedures, enhance transparency, and address community needs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the ten latest updates you should know to navigate the Wigan planning application system effectively.
Wigan Planning Applications: Introduction of Online Application Submission
Wigan Council has introduced a new online application submission system for planning applications. This allows applicants to submit their proposals electronically, improving accessibility and reducing paperwork.
Benefits of Online Submission
The introduction of online submission streamlines the application process, provides faster feedback to applicants, and reduces the environmental impact of paper applications.
Wigan Planning Applications: Revised Local Development Framework
The Wigan Council has updated its Local Development Framework (LDF), outlining the strategic planning policies for the borough. This framework guides future development, infrastructure projects, and land use.
Key Changes in the Local Development Framework
The revised LDF includes new housing targets, updated employment land allocations, and enhanced policies for sustainable development. These changes align with national and regional planning guidelines.
Enhanced Community Consultation Requirements
To improve community engagement, the Wigan Council has enhanced its consultation requirements for planning applications. This includes additional public consultations, neighbourhood meetings, and online feedback mechanisms.
How Community Consultation Works
Developers are required to engage with local residents and stakeholders early in the planning process. Community feedback plays a crucial role in shaping development proposals and addressing concerns.
Green Building Standards Implementation
Wigan Council has implemented new green building standards for all new developments and major refurbishments. These standards focus on energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and reducing carbon emissions.
Compliance and Benefits
Developers must meet these green building standards to obtain planning approval. Benefits include lower energy costs for residents, reduced environmental impact, and improved building quality.
Introduction of Design Codes
Wigan Council has introduced design codes for specific areas within the borough. These codes provide detailed design principles and guidelines to ensure high-quality development that enhances local character and identity.
Using Design Codes
Developers and architects must adhere to the design codes when preparing planning applications. This ensures that new developments are visually appealing and integrate well with existing surroundings.
Affordable Housing Requirements Update
In response to housing affordability issues, Wigan Council has updated its affordable housing requirements. New developments must include a percentage of affordable housing units or make financial contributions to support affordable housing projects.
Implementation and Impact
These requirements aim to increase the supply of affordable housing in the borough and provide more options for low-income residents. Developers can choose between on-site provision or financial contributions.
Wigan Planning Applications: Changes to Permitted Development Rights
Wigan Council has made changes to permitted development rights, affecting minor alterations and extensions to existing properties. These changes aim to balance development rights with neighbourhood character and amenity.
Understanding Permitted Development Changes
Residents and developers must check with Wigan Council’s planning department to determine what developments require planning permission and which can proceed under permitted development rights.
Wigan Planning Applications: Infrastructure Investment Plans
To support future development, Wigan Council has outlined infrastructure investment plans. These plans include improvements to transportation networks, public amenities, and utilities.
Key Infrastructure Projects
Major projects include road enhancements, public transport improvements, and upgrades to water and sewage systems. These projects are essential for accommodating population growth and enhancing quality of life.
Conservation Area Updates
Wigan Council has updated its conservation area policies to protect and enhance historic buildings and landscapes. These updates ensure that development within conservation areas respects local heritage and character.
Preservation Efforts
Property owners and developers must adhere to conservation area policies when planning alterations or new developments. The council provides guidance and support to maintain the integrity of these areas.
Planning Enforcement Policy Review
Wigan Council has reviewed its planning enforcement policy to ensure compliance with planning permissions and regulations. This includes investigating and resolving breaches of planning control.
Importance of Planning Enforcement
Effective enforcement ensures that developments adhere to approved plans and mitigate any adverse impacts on the community and environment. Residents can report suspected breaches to the council for investigation.
Conclusion
The latest updates in Wigan planning applications reflect the council’s commitment to sustainable development, community engagement, and efficient planning processes. By understanding these updates and their implications, residents, developers, and stakeholders can navigate the planning system more effectively. Staying informed and involved is key to ensuring that development in Wigan meets the needs of the community while protecting the environment and preserving local heritage.
FAQs
1. How do I submit a planning application online in Wigan?
You can submit a planning application online through Wigan Council’s planning portal on their official website. This allows you to complete and submit your application electronically.
2. What are the key changes in Wigan’s Local Development Framework?
Key changes in Wigan’s Local Development Framework include new housing targets, updated employment land allocations, and enhanced policies for sustainable development.
3. How can I get involved in community consultations for planning applications in Wigan?
You can get involved in community consultations by attending public meetings, participating in online feedback sessions, and submitting comments on planning applications through Wigan Council’s website.
4. What are the green building standards in Wigan planning applications?
Green building standards in Wigan planning applications focus on energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and reducing carbon emissions. Developers must comply with these standards to obtain planning approval.
5. How can I report a planning enforcement issue in Wigan?
You can report a planning enforcement issue by contacting Wigan Council’s planning enforcement team directly or by submitting a report through their website. Include details of the issue and any evidence you have.
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