Unique Planning and Building Control contract goes ahead.

A unique outsourcing contract has been given the green light at a meeting of Breckland Cabinet today. Following the ‘decision in principle’ in February to externalise the Planning and Building Control departments, the detail of the contract with Capita Symonds has been agreed for implementation.

Capita Symonds will administer the services for the council for the next 15 years and will build on the already high standards that residents have come to expect. The contract could generate around £4m or more in savings and extra revenue for the council. The new partnership will also improve public access to planning services by enabling planning applications to be viewed online.

Tim Leader, Deputy Chief Executive of Breckland Council is delighted with the decision:
“Our Planning and Building Control departments have a reputation for delivering an efficient and professional service. The staff within these teams will be transferred to Capita Symonds under a TUPE agreement. This gives Capita Symonds a wealth of expertise to utilise whilst they make further enhancements, create efficiencies and increase earning potential. Residents will consequently benefit from improvements and a downward pressure on council tax.”

Capita Symonds is already providing flexible planning support and expertise to approximately 45 local authorities across the UK.

Dave Spencer, Executive Director, Capita Symonds, says:
“We are delighted to have signed the contract. Breckland Council are a forward thinking Council and we very much look forward to working with its Members and Officers for the benefit of Breckland residents as we grow our new business in Norfolk.”