High praise for Bury’s ‘professional’ planners

Bury’s planning committee and council officers have received high praise for their professionalism and quality of service to the borough’s citizens.

They were looked at by independent reviewers from Halton and Kirklees councils, as part of continuing improvement work suggested by the national Planning Advisory Service.

The reviewers said: “The commitment of both the professional officers and councillors to delivering a first class service is excellent. In particular the commitment of the councillors to the training and their understanding of the role of the committee are impressive.

“The desire of the officers and councillors to make sure the correct decision is made on its planning merits, which is not always an easy option, is also admirable.”

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, cabinet member for resource and regulation, said: “I am delighted, but not surprised, that the peer reviewers found that the planning committee and the development management service as a whole works extremely well and is something that the council can be proud of. Planning can be an extremely emotive subject and it is vital that the highest standards are maintained. I congratulate all the members and staff who do such a great job on our behalf.”

The full review report can be read at:http://councildecisions.bury.gov.uk/documents/s7439/PAS%20review%20report.pdf

ENDS

Press release issued: 19 February 2015.