Local authority planning fees increase by 20 per cent

Planning applications submitted before that date and assessed as being valid by Cheltenham Borough Council will not be subject to the increase.

However, anyone submitting a planning application which is and remains invalid up to 17 January will have to pay the increased fee.

Cllr Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety, continued: “Cheltenham has an efficient and well respected planning department which tackles a wide range of planning issues within the town.

“The increased fee income will allow the council to invest further in the planning service to ensure that it is able to respond effectively to the challenges of the future, such as the implementation of the Joint Core Strategy and Local Plan.”

Tracey Crews, director of planning, says: “We are pleased to see the national rise in planning fees which recognises the cost of delivering a planning service.

“Over the coming weeks we will also be reviewing our pre application service; including a review of these charges where appropriate. This would allow us to be able to invest more in our pre-application advice services to promote high quality sustainable development.”

If any organisation or business is considering a development project, of any scale, information on the council’s website sets out how the planning team can provide invaluable advice to help achieve a positive outcome for proposals. Alternatively businesses and residents can reach the planning team on 01242 264328 for an informal discussion.