Mayor's Column - 20 June 2012 - Improvements to development lodgement services

Date Posted: 20 June 2012

Lake Macquarie City Council recently introduced a new system that allows builders to book building inspections electronically.  This improved service in the development area is one of many that Council has been working on over the last few years.

It all started with the introduction of Application Tracking in 2004.  This software allows anyone with Internet access the ability to track the progress of an application and to view all the documents associated with it.  At last count, we estimate there are in excess of 30,000 applications viewable through this system.  This service has been very well received, and it certainly satisfies those who want to be able to access information when it’s convenient for them.

Another service that has been well received is Council’s pre-lodgement meeting service, which started in 2010.  This service provides an opportunity for applicants to meet with key Council staff face-to-face before they lodge their application.  The intent of this service is to ensure that all the correct documentation is in place and highlight any major concerns or issues that would need to be addressed prior to lodging an application.

Feedback on this service led staff to initiate a further improvement last year, with the introduction of concept meetings.  The concept meeting is a step before the pre-lodgement meeting and facilitates preliminary discussion on broad concepts for a proposed development, prior to an applicant undertaking potentially expensive studies and reports.

In the last year, Council has held around 150 pre-lodgement and concept meetings, or 3 per week, which I believe highlights the success of these services.

The current challenge, which has been gaining momentum over the last year, is the move to electronic lodgement of applications, and electronic inspections.  This is being driven by the development industry, and Council is actively working with companies to trial these systems.  Feedback to date is very positive.

Article by Mayor Greg Piper