Planning and development consultancy Lichfields has launched a unique on-line resource to assist industry professionals navigate the uncertain planning environment as a result of COVID-19

Business as (un)usual, is designed to help clients and the development industry navigate a route to development, and support economic recovery.

The resource’s centrepiece is an interactive map that tracks how Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) across England, Wales and Scotland are delivering their planning functions in response to the restrictions on normal life.

It currently holds data for 85% of all Councils, with more being added each day.

This tool allows users to navigate each LPA to ascertain how each planning team is fulfilling its statutory responsibilities on applications and Local Plans, and to what extent the lockdown crisis impacts resources.

Lichfields say it will be updated on a regular basis and it is liaising with local councils on this.

Users can also find guidance on the changing nature of the Government’s advice, regulation and legislation, and what they mean for planning and development, with practical advice on how to keep momentum in the planning system and identify potential new opportunities.

Matthew Spry, Lichfields’ Senior Director, said: “With the Government’s decision to extend the lockdown we felt we needed to develop new ways of supporting our clients and the wider development industry.

“The day-to-day reality of the planning system has changed, and we believe this interactive guide will be a key tool in supporting the industry over the coming weeks and months”.

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