Planning checklist will 'modernise' process

A new way of putting in planning applications will reduce "unnecessary paperwork" and "improve efficiency", a government says.

The Government of Jersey said a new planning application checklist would come into effect from Monday.

It said applications would need to provide information on design, drainage and biodiversity at the point of submission.

Sir Mark Boleat, Minister for Planning and Regulation, said it was part of plans "to modernise the planning process, support investment and development, and ensure that planning remains focused on the public interest while continuing to protect our environment and communities".

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Boleat said: "One of the most frequent concerns raised with me by islanders was the volume of documentation that can be required when submitting planning applications.

"Since taking office, I have been clear that we must have a planning system that works for islanders, supports economic growth and focuses on what really matters.

"The new validation checklist is a practical example of that approach."

He added the checklist would remove unnecessary burdens, reduces the need for specialist reports in many circumstances and introduces a more proportionate system that reflects Jersey's needs.

The Government of Jersey said the information could be prepared by applicants themselves and would reduce delays caused by missing or incomplete information later in the process.

The new arrangements would be monitored over the next six months, to make sure they delivered the intended benefits for applicants and decision makers, it said.

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