PLANNING application decisions will be ‘inevitably delayed’, the Isle of Wight Council has said.

County Hall is reviewing its procedures during the coronavirus outbreak, to ensure users and staff can observe social distancing.

The Seaclose Park planning office is closed and staff are working remotely.

No site visits are being carried out, except where allegations of unlawful activity involving protected trees and heritage assets are reported. 

The Isle of Wight Council said: “All new applications and enquiries must be submitted electronically. Applications received by post cannot be processed whilst lockdown restrictions are in place.

“New applications will be made available online in the usual way. However, the formal public consultation period for these applications will not begin until Government guidance on non-essential movement changes - when site notices can be put up and site visits undertaken.

“At that time planning applications will also be advertised as usual in the local press.” 

Read about the changes in full HERE.