Following rollout of the Planning Casework Service (PCS) PINS has been able to provide a ‘public view’ of Enforcement and Planning Appeals documentation via publication on the Planning Portal. However, while PINS has encouraged participants in the appeals process to submit documents to it electronically, either online via the Portal or by email, the majority of submissions made by parties remain in paper format.
This required a much greater degree of scanning of these paper submissions than had been forecast and was the main problem encountered with the system. As a consequence PINS reviewed its processes and has temporarily reduced the level of scanning to the main documentation.
PCS continues to allow parties to submit appeals and other supporting documentation online and by email. It also allows interested parties to comment on and track the progress of appeals via the Planning Portal as well as providing a view of the appeal decision once issued.
Following rollout of PCS, PINS has followed correct Government protocol in determining value for money. It is preparing a revised benefits realisation plan and has sanctioned a Post Implementation Review, in line with OGC best practice. The review is at an advanced stage and will be followed by a Gateway 5 review.