PLANNERS at Ribble Valley Council have received a slap on the back from Government inspectors.
The council's development control department has increased its 13-week determination rate for major planning applications from 40 to 100 per cent.
The 13-week turnaround for minor applications has also jumped from 34 per cent to 69 per cent.
The Government has praised Ribble Valley planners after they worked to improve performance following a "standard" Best Value rating in 2003.
The council's development control manager, John Macholc said: "I am delighted with this accolade from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and acknowledge the hard work of my staff in securing this significant improvement.
"However, we will continue to examine ways in which our service can be improved, such as providing greater access to planning information, via our website and local libraries."
Ribble Valley residents with planning queries are now able to speak to council officers without appointment from 1pm to 4pm every day and from 4pm to 5pm by appointment. Specialist advice on conservation and design is also available on Thursdays.
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