3. Allow users to view application drawings and attachments online

Ideally, users should be able to carry out a 'real-time' search of the authority's back-office system using varied search criteria, with links to the relevant documents in a document management system.

Alternatively, a link can be created from application reference numbers folders containing relevant documents.

If possible, application drawings and attachments should be available as soon as possible from the date of registration.

If information which forms part of the decision making process cannot be displayed, an explanatory note should inform the user what the document is and where it can be obtained or viewed.

All documents which are open to the public should be available, and clearly labelled.

Remember to keep Data Protection in mind by blanking out all personal information (telephone numbers etc) within the application. 

For further information, view the PARSOL guidance on 'Making Information from Planning (Application and Enforcement) and Building Control Registers and Databases Available on Local Authority Websites' here (PDF 157 Kb).

Finally, a link to national planning register on the Planning Portal would also suffice for this tip.