APPLYING for planning permission in Dudley is set to get quicker, cheaper and simpler as new measures are introduced to overhaul the planning process in the borough.

Dudley Council’s planning department is to adopt a new Local Development Order, subject to cabinet approval on September 13, to allow people to obtain written consent for single or two-storey, rear or side extensions without the need to apply for planning permission.

The new order will make the process quicker, cheaper and simpler as long as the proposal complies with the adopted design guidance and standards which can be viewed online at www.dudley.gov.uk/resident/planning/planning-services/local-development-order/.

As part of the new measures, the council is also introducing a new way for people to find out about planning applications in the area by launching a new email alert system called My Alerts.

The system will allow residents and businesses to sign up to receive an email alert when a new planning application is registered within a selected area and will replace the council’s old system of writing to residents. Notices will continue to be displayed in the local area though.

A new process is also going to be implemented for people to raise any planning related issues or concerns.

The planning enforcement plan outlines key areas such as the purpose and legal basis for planning enforcement, what can be investigated, how a planning enforcement issue is reported, and what happens when a valid complaint is received.

As part of the measures, the council will also introduce a charge for written pre-application advice. Advice on householder developments, outdoor advertising, listed buildings and conservation areas, protected trees and change of use will now all be charged for. People will still be able to get free advice over the phone though.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: “These changes focus on creating a smoother, quicker and cheaper process for those wanting to make changes to their home, as well as utilising the digital platform in a more practical way. In addition, this is a more cost effective way for the council to operate, freeing up time for staff to focus on large scale developments in our local area.”

Details of the individual changes can be accessed online at www.dudley.gov.uk/resident/planning/#.

The changes are due to come into effect on October 2.