Simply appealing - The Planning Casework Service

Helping to deliver a simpler, more efficient and accessible planning appeal system

In November 2004, the Planning Inspectorate introduced the Planning Casework Service (PCS), a new online service which gives the people wider and easier access to the planning system.

The Planning Casework Service is available on the Internet via the Planning Portal, a Web site that offers a broad array of services on planning. The Planning Portal, which was developed and launched by the Planning Inspectorate in 2002 and now operated by DCLG, is the first point of call for anyone who wants to find out about the planning system in England and Wales.

The Planning Casework Service can be used in England to make Enforcement Appeals (including Listed Building/Conservation Area Enforcement Notice appeals) and Lawful Development Certificate Appeals and to make Access Restriction Appeals under section 30(3) of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 in England.

Throughout 2005 the Planning Casework Service will be extended to deal with planning appeals and the Inspectorate's other casework and it will also be introduced for casework in Wales.

Benefits of using the Planning Casework Service

For users of the appeal system the Planning Casework Service delivers huge benefits over the present system, because they will be able to engage more fully with the Inspectorate.

Using the Planning Portal, people can make and track appeals online. They can see appeals locally and nationally, view them on a map, make comments online, track progress in real time and view decisions. In fact, visitors to the site will find everything they need to know about these types of appeal.

The Planning Casework Service provides useful online tools, such as simple and easy-to-use appeal forms that allow users to send an appeal directly to the Inspectorate. There are hints and tips on how to complete the form and how to upload electronic documents or drawings, so users have a better chance to get it right first time.

Users get an onscreen receipt to let them know that their appeal has been received. Some local authorities will accept an e-mail copy of an appeal made online.  The list of such authorities and the e-mail address you should use are given on the Planning Portal.

Local authorities can complete and submit their appeal questionnaires online for these cases. Sending appeals in electronically speeds up the process and save users money because it means that there is no need to make multiple copies.

How to use it and improve it

Getting started could not be easier. Just log onto www.planningportal.gov.uk/pcs and follow the simple instructions. We think that this service is easy to use, but if you need assistance with using it, help text is provided onscreen. You can also email or phone the Inspectorate's Customer Support Unit for help. This service provides you with a single point of contact to access all of our services in England.

We are looking to constantly improve our service, so we welcome your comments on ways that we might do this. Please email your suggestions to pcs@pins.gsi.gov.uk .

---

Accessibility | Contact Us | Privacy Statement | Site Feedback | Site Map | Planning Portal | Directgov | Gov news | Crown Copyright © 2004

---