Council planning department draws up designs for success

The Royal Town Planning Institute’s Awards for Planning Excellence were held in London.

RTPI awards advisor Craig McLaren said: “Rotherham Council planners’ dedication to improving their community through planning is outstanding.

“The high level of community satisfaction is testament to this. We were blown away by their exceptional submission, especially their commitment to efficient working including a paperless document management system.”

Proud RMBC head of planning Bronwen Knight said: “Not only to be shortlisted but to win is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the hard work of Rotherham planners and support staff.

“With the council recording 100 per cent performance last year and making excellent progress with our local plan, and recently winning the Yorkshire Property Game Changer award for the Advanced Manufacturing Park and the McLaren project, this is truly fantastic news.”

Damien Wilson, the council’s regeneration director, said: “This could not have been achieved without our well-motivated, hard-working, experienced, qualified planners.

“This award gives confidence to businesses looking to invest in jobs, homes and developments within Rotherham.”

Meanwhile, Labour group members have ditched Cllr Alan Atkin as chairman of the planning board.

Cllr Atkin, who has held the position since 2014, has been replaced by Cllr David Sheppard.

Council leader Cllr Chris Read said: “The Labour groups elects a chairman each year and these things change from time to time.”