Digital Initiative Trial Helps Residents Accessibility

PropTech engagement funding to support local authority planning processes and boost public engagement.

07:02 03 November 2021

The UK Government is spending £1million to test new digital initiatives designed to make the planning process more open and accessible to the public. 

 

Under the PropTech Engagement Fund, 13 planning authorities, including Dacorum and Chesterfield Borough Councils, Cotsworld District Council, and Southampton City Council, will trial innovative digital tools like online 3D map, QR code systems and digital technology, among others. The scheme aims to allow residents to easily access planning information and boost public engagement. 

 

The pilot will inform the government's work to modernise the planning system and help planning authorities in establishing best practices as well as identifying where digital guidance and innovations can be used. 

 

Minister for Housing Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP said: "We want to use digital technology to make the planning system fit for the 21st century and empower people from all backgrounds to get involved in decisions that impact their communities."

 

"From scannable QR codes giving people local planning information straight to their mobile devices, to interactive online maps, these digital pilots will help us create a more accessible and transparent system and ensure people are informed, engaged and can have their say."