Colleagues will have seen the Blackcountry's Planning Charter. The West of England has recently published something similar called the 'Planning Toolkit'. This vision for a more positive and consistent planning process based on collaboration and engagement could easily be replicated elsewhere. The benefits are clear: for Councils improved performance and delivery of core strategies; for developers reduced risks through greater certainty and consistency in decision making and better engagement with members, officers and local communities; for LEPs unblocking obstacles to deliver of jobs and economic growth. For more information on we did it and tips on how the toolkit could be developed contact its author, Ian Collinson on 07792 503738 or email him at thecollinsons@blueyonder.co.uk
