Town council still considering planning applications during coronavirus pandemic
Important decisions over such items as planning applications are still being made by Sevenoaks Town Council during the coronavirus lock down, the authority confirmed in a recent statement.
It said: “Sevenoaks Town Council continues where possible to exercise its responsibilities and delivering its obligations during coronavirus pandemic
“Sevenoaks Town Council under the Government’s recent guidelines and conventions, as analysed by both the National Association [NALC] and the Kent Association of Local Councils [KALC], is continuing to exercise its responsibilities and delivering its obligations where possible.”
The Council says it is doing this by using on-line software and technology to provide the necessary communications, exchange of information, advice and is continuing to serve those who live and/or work in Sevenoaks Town.
It added: “Planning Applications are currently being considered under statutory delegated authority in consultation with Ward Councillors and the Chairman of the Planning Committee. A full list of planning applications being considered is publicised on the Sevenoaks Town Council’s website www.sevenoakstown.gov.uk similar to a normal agenda.
“A further document will be uploaded to indicate the recommendations forwarded to the Planning Authority. Members of the public continue to be welcomed to make their comments in the normal manner either by email to planning@seveoakstown.gov.uk or to the designated Ward Councillor.
Following national guidelines published last week Sevenoaks Town Council will be reviewing the process to temporarily move to virtual meetings.
Additional coronavirus COVID 19 emergency measures by Town Council
Following the Prime Minister’s address to the nation on 23 March 2020 all communal places within parks, such as playgrounds, skate parks, sports courts and outdoor gyms were closed with immediate effect. Regular inspections will not take place on these facilities whilst closed to the public.
The government instruction has also been given that people must stay at home except where it is essential for work purposes – but workers should be trying to minimise all meetings and other gatherings in the workplace. Our offices are now closed for the public to attend, answer phone messages and emails will be responded to asap.
The Tow Council Grounds Team (exception of cemetery staff) are working on a rota basis so that they can work independently and be available for essential situations and as back up to cemetery staff.
Please help limit the spread of the virus by:
• Taking your litter and dog waste home
• Respecting the closure of playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor gyms
• Following government guidelines
Tending allotments is still permitted but please observe strict social spacing and wear gloves when opening and closing gates.
Thank you for your support and assistance in keeping the special town of Sevenoaks and the community safe in these exceptional times.
Linda Larter MBE
Chief Executive / Town Clerk
* Sevenoaks Town Council £30,000 Community Resilience Fund Grants available for voluntary organisations supporting others during COVID 19
For more details go to: www.sevenoakstown.gov.uk
