Decision

Following consideration, the Committee unanimously resolved to:

(1)      Note the current and predicted adverse variance in planning-related fees and the measures taken to address this, and the limited opportunities for mitigation for income that is market led.

(2)      Agree that the estimated budgeted income for planning related fees, which takes into account estimates from officers relating to market conditions, planning fees and the future pipeline of likely planning applications, provides a reasonable framework for budget setting.

(3)      Note the requirement for an additional planning officer post to enable the introduction of new income generating services.