Oxford City
Consultation responses sent to Inspectors and currently awaiting response. Adoption still hoped by middle of year but unclear until responses received. Planning Policy workflows not particularly affected by Covid-19.
Applications are still being registered and determined, where it is not necessary for a site visit. Planning meetings and committees have been suspended until alternative measures confirmed.
South Oxfordshire
Still accepting applications but delayed due to backlog caused by ‘teething’ issues around home working.
Decisions are also being delayed due to no site visits being undertaken – Govt guidance on this is due to come out soon, so this could change if green light given. Virtual committees are being considered.
Vale of White Horse
Planning Policy workflows not particularly affected by Covid-19.
Still accepting applications but delayed due to backlog caused by ‘teething’ issues around home working.
Decisions are also being delayed due to no site visits being undertaken – Govt guidance on this is due to come out soon, so this could change if green light given.
Virtual committees are being considered.
West Oxfordshire
WODC are currently preparing the Eynsham Garden Village Area Action Plan. Final (pre-submission) draft AAP consultation was hoped for March - April 2020, however various factors including Covid-19 have delayed this. Cabinet meeting is now hoped for June/July 2020, with formal consultation hoped for summer 2020. Adoption now hoped for early 2021.
Staff are working remotely and electronic applications and pre-application responses will continue to be processed. Can assess samples from photographs, manufacturers details and also hold video conferences.
Some applications are being determined without site visits, where practicable. In circumstances where the lack of a site visit is preventing a proper assessment, an extension of time will be sought to determine the application. If no such extension is agreed they are advised that such applications can be refused.
Considering virtual committees. Until agreed, those applications that can’t be determined by delegated powers will require extension of time.
Cherwell
Still awaiting response from Inspector re main mods. Expecting to hear by mid-May. Planning Policy workflows not particularly affected by Covid-19.
Continuing to register and validate applications via officers’ home working.
Meetings and committees suspended. Officers are working to address the technological and logistical issues of running virtual meetings.
