Homeowner Web App Launched by UK Government

UK launches two web apps for homeowners - a step towards a fully digital planning system.

17:53 02 July 2021

The UK Government has recently launched two new web apps for homeowners, architects and developers. The scheme, which is funded by the Local Digital Fund, aims to make the extension application process easier. 

 

Called Reducing Invalid Planning Applications (RIPA) and Back Office Planning Systems (BoPS), the apps were designed by three English councils in a bid to achieve a fully digital planning system. 

 

Secretary of State for Housing Robert Jenrick said: “These apps are a step towards a planning system that is transparent, efficient, and end-to-end digital – saving time and money for developers, architects and homeowners, and letting planners focus on the merits of applications rather than chasing paperwork.”

 

The new app for homeowners allows users to ask a series of questions to help them determine whether the plans meet local and national requirements. It also allows them to apply for the required certificate to show their plans are permitted development. The second app, on the other hand, focuses on data and helps planners make decisions quickly. 

 

Lambeth Planning, Transport and Sustainability director Rob Bristow said: “The RIPA app will guide users through the rules, based on what they want to do and where in the borough their property is, to see whether their plans meet the requirements.

 

“Along with the BoPS app, which will see a hugely improved back-end system for planners to use in their assessments, these exciting new tools will not only provide an enhanced experience for property owners, they will also enable interested parties such as neighbours to be consulted sooner, and help planning officers process applications more effectively.”