Overview

Public consultation is changing. It is receiving more focused attention within the planning system in terms of both policy and procedure. It is important that those of us involved engage with the new ideas that are emerging around what is “effective public consultation” and use these to achieve compliance with the new statutory and policy regime and therefore secure appropriate public consultation in the planning process.

We all need to engage with the implications and effects of new forms of social media and to recognise the implications of the new regime. In particular, we need to think through the opportunities and risks associated with the increased legal focus on public consultation.

Social media is something that can help everyone involved in the consultation process from the lawyer to the architect and council member to the person on the street. It is cost effective, supports better communication, enables a two-way dialogue and allows information to be available to a wider audience. There are, of course, risks as well as opportunities and we must be aware of the legal issues surrounding its use and plan accordingly. We also cannot underestimate the need for moderation of content and feedback to achieve the best outcome.

It is increasingly important to embrace the changes social media brings and ensure our experience is integrated into the emerging systems of public consultation. By taking this approach, we can help shape the process that we will all have to work with, get development back on track and improve the process and outcomes for all involved.

Click to read more.