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Local Enforcement Plan to be updated 

News release issued:

New improved guidelines explaining the process and timescales for planning enforcement cases are being discussed by Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet.

The Council is looking to update its Local Enforcement Plan (LEP) to enhance clarity and efficiency in handling planning enforcement cases. If the Cabinet approves the recommendations the revised LEP will include a detailed process flowchart, offering clearer guidance for the public and enforcement officers. It is hoped it will improve customer service and expectations for customers who report breaches in planning.

The plan will outline the stages of enforcement action and the suggested timeframes based on the nature of the cases. The cases are divided into three types of priorities. Priority one covers breaches which would cause severe irreversible harm, priority two covers those which would cause harm to amenity or risk to public safety and those which pose no significant harm as classed as priority three.

The Enforcement Team is currently managing an unprecedented volume of cases. Up until October this year there had been 185 cases opened and 138 fully dealt with.

Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda said:

"The revised Local Enforcement Plan is a significant step forward in ensuring transparency and efficiency in how enforcement cases are managed. The introduction of a process flowchart empowers the public and Council members with a clear understanding of the steps and timeframes involved. This helps set realistic expectations and supports our officers in prioritising cases effectively.”

Enforcement action is discretionary and guided by the National Planning Policy Framework. While not all enforcement work will lead to formal court action, the updated LEP provides a robust framework to make sure actions align with the district’s strategic priorities.

The Cabinet meeting is taking place at 6pm on Wednesday 18 December. It can be watched on the council's website.

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