Blogs

Benefits of a Local Plan Virtual Exhibition Room

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Tue, 19/11/2024 - 10:00

Using a 3D virtual exhibition for local plan consultations can offer several advantages for both local governments and the community. Uncover some key reasons why it might be beneficial...

Celebrating World Town Planning Day 2024

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Fri, 08/11/2024 - 10:11

Today, planners across the globe celebrate the 75th anniversary of World Town Planning Day. We’d like to mark the day by sharing appreciation for our loyal clients within local planning teams throughout the UK.

How to increase online participation in Local Plan consultations

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Fri, 20/09/2024 - 11:46

By employing a mix of these strategies, you'll increase awareness, make the process more accessible, and encourage a wider range of people to participate in the Local Plan consultation.

How to encourage more Call for Sites submissions to meet housing demand

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Thu, 22/08/2024 - 11:49

Encouraging more site submissions to meet the increase in housing demand is crucial for local planning authorities to meet newly proposed central government targets and ensure adequate housing supply. In this article we share several strategies to enhance site submissions...

Dedicated Website hailed a success for the Greater Norwich Local Plan

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Mon, 12/08/2024 - 13:53

Image of Greater Norwich Local Plan website

The Greater Norwich authorities successfully improved the user experience with the new dedicated Local Plan website integrated with OpusConsult, and it ultimately supported the in-depth process which led to the Greater Norwich Local Plan being adopted.

20 Benefits of the Opus system to Local Planning Authorities

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Mon, 05/08/2024 - 11:24

Are you a planner feeling immense pressure to deliver in these very challenging times? If so, you’re not alone! The commitment to 1.5M new homes is arguably the most ambitious announcement from the new Government...

How interactive maps within local plan documents can transform community engagement

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Tue, 30/07/2024 - 10:38

Embedding an interactive map within a digitalised Local Plan document can provide numerous benefits, particularly in the context of urban planning and public engagement. Here are some compelling reasons to do so:

The impact of planning reform on planning policy teams

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Mon, 08/07/2024 - 10:49

The new UK Government appointed in July 2024 has announced their intention to overhaul planning rules.

Planning reform can have a profound impact on planning policy teams, affecting various aspects of their operations and responsibilities. Here are some of the key impacts:

How to overcome planning policy challenges

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Mon, 01/07/2024 - 15:14

Photo with professional at desk with headache

Our recent survey findings in June 2024, highlighted that resource constraints are currently the biggest challenge faced by planning policy teams.

How to choose local planning policy consultation software

Submitted by Cath Patterson on Tue, 11/06/2024 - 14:19

Key steps and considerations to help you make an informed decision for your plan-making digital tech requirements...