Council launches pioneering planning service
The first public sector commercial planning, development and environmental consultancy in the Midlands is to be launched in Telford this month.
apT is blazing a trail for local authorities across the UK - aiming to save housing developers, commercial developers, businesses and individual homeowners time and money by helping them to make their ideas to extend and build come to fruition.
The consultancy, based at Telford & Wrekin Council’s Wellington offices, will be looking to support developments through the regulation processes, providing enhanced services to its existing customers and reinforcing the safety of development and sustainability credentials.
apT’s customer focussed services include professional help and guidance for planning, both preparing/submitting planning applications, the preparation of policy and support promoting sites (outside the Borough of Telford & Wrekin), in highway design and adoptions and building regulations.
Particular focus is given to the borough’s residents, providing them with valuable guidance in achieving their ambitions at the outset, supporting any chosen builder by offering early advice and regular inspections by an independent, impartial and accountable surveyor.
Councillor Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Housing, said: “We help by supporting developers and homeowners to get their building regulations and planning applications ‘right first time’, including sustainable design solutions and making sure the buildings are structurally safe.
“Our service builds on extensive knowledge of regulations to properly advise builders and residents, helping reduce red tape and give impartial advice through a trusted and recognised service. We bring together specialist knowledge and expertise all under one roof.
“Our specialist skills and experience cover all necessary bases and means we are fully equipped to help our clients meet all the requirements of the development process, creating tailored development solutions and deliver environmental stewardship.”
apT will provide an accessible team to everyone from homeowners through to residential and commercial developers, land agents, other Local Authorities and everything in-between
It will also offer more specialist consultancy for built heritage conservation, urban design, ecological conservation, strategic housing and recreational specialists.
For more information, go to www.apt-group.co.uk.
