Media Release : 18 May 2012

The planning officer will be available to deal with  public enquiries about prospective planning applications and advise the town and surrounding parish councils on current applications.

"We will be trying out  this pilot service for six months to assess the benefits of locally delivered services," said Councillor Roy Galley, Cabinet member for Planning and Development.

"Wealden is one of the busiest district planning authorities in England. Last year we received 2,658 planning applications. As we cover an area of 322 square miles, this approach will help us to provide  guidance that reflects the needs of the communities we serve. If  the six month pilot proves successful, we will consider providing  'in-house' planning officers for other parts of the district."

From the week begining 21 May 2012, a planning officer will be based at town council offices in Uckfield Civic Centre on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Members of the public will be able to book an appointment with the planning officer on Thursday afternoons  by telephoning 01892 602010. Officers will also be able to help with enquiries from  the surrounding parishes of  Framfield, Buxted, Hadlow Down, Maresfield, Fletching, Isfield, Little Horsted and East Hoathly with Halland.

"I am excited about this project to provide residents with a local service," said Cllr John Carvey, Mayor of Uckfield.  "It should ease people's concerns about the planning process and is further evidence of Wealden providing help locally where it is needed."

Offering householders, agents and businesses the opportunity to discuss plans with professional planning officers before applications are made greatly improves the efficiency of the planning process and the understanding of all involved. It can help avoid costly disappointments further down the line.

This is a joint initiative between Uckfield Town Council and Wealden District Council and it is hoped it will be of benefit to local residents.