Mid Bedfordshire adopted ACOLAID in 2002. The project started with a rapid implementation in two months; it has since developed a sophisticated range of electronic services including automatic email alerts to councillors and secure online neighbour consultations.

The Council is currently creating direct and dynamic online application services using ACOLNET so that applicants can submit building control plans without the risk of having to be dependent on any third party.

 

E-government

Times are changing in local government service provision. The possibilities of Internet technologies and a government eager to harness them have made the electronic brave new world a rapidly approaching reality. With target dates drawing closer, powerful government financial incentives, and growing demand from the public, it's no wonder that local authorities are taking e-government very seriously.

Southwark and Planning Portal - a First for Local Government and Plantech

Plantech's work with Southwark has led to the authority becoming the first in the UK to have processed a planning application from start to finish entirely through the Planning Inspectorate's Planning Portal - resoundingly beating the government's deadline of 2005 for 100% electronic transactions and getting immediate results. The ground-breaking application (for a night club advertisement consent) was completed 100% electronically.

"Plantech have met all the requirements of becoming a Planning Portal Accredited Partner and are the first software provider to have earned this recognition."

Richard Goodwin – Planning Portal Director