Upcoming Council Changes
Changes are afoot for many local authority planning departments. A number of them are participating in the Reducing Invalid Planning Application (RIPA) and the Back-Office Planning System (BOPS) Project. The Development of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) is supporting the initiative to create a user-focused back-office town planning system that utilises accurate, up-to-date records and data to increase the efficiency of the planning application process and satisfy the needs of end users.
According to the Local Digital website, in November 2021, the DLUHC launched an Expression of Interest to find local authority planning departments that want to explore ways to streamline and modernise the planning application process, supporting the vision set out in the Government’s Planning for the Future White Paper. The White Paper proposes a series of improvements to the planning system aimed at making the planning and building control process easy to understand, simplified, and more responsive to the needs of users.
For many planning departments participating in this initiative, their first task is to scan decades worth of planning documentation. These records can be held in a myriad of formats, from paper files, microfiche, microfilm, and even CDs and DVDs. The job of digitising these planning applications and building control files can seem daunting for the uninitiated, but that is where Storetec comes in.
Following a free comprehensive onsite audit, we are working with many planning departments to scan millions of documents to allow them to transition to a digital future in support of RIPA/BOPS and other initiatives. Delivering a successful digitisation project on time and within budget is critical, especially when central funding is being used. Here Storetec’s 20+ years of experience comes into its own. We know what it takes to succeed, and our numerous awards tell us that our clients appreciate our work on their behalf.
Contact us today if you would like more information on how Storetec’s services can benefit your organisation. Get in touch to arrange a free onsite audit at your convenience. We will work with you to review your records and create a project plan to futureproof your information. Storetec removes the hassle and uncertainty from your digital transformation journey.
