01.10.2023
The application process for low-risk projects will be simplified through changes to legislation.
The law removes the need for planning and building permission for small developments, with the architect and structural engineer taking responsibility for the correctness and completeness of the study.
The proposed regulation aims to modernize existing procedures by introducing a more flexible licensing structure that will reduce application processing time and improve services provided to the public in the local government context.
A change to the way planning applications are considered was discussed and agreed on Tuesday at a meeting between Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, President of Etek Konstantinos Konstanty and the delegation.
This change is also associated with the decision to introduce a set of measures aimed at redesigning and simplifying procedures, and, at the same time, preparing existing planning authorities to support the activities of local government organizations from July 1, 2024. To this end, on behalf of the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Department of Urban Development has drawn up a comprehensive plan, which includes 22 measures with a deadline for implementation until July 1.
Among other things, this will differentiate the required consultation process with agencies (such as EAC, Fire, Water, and Public Works) by including requirements at the application stage rather than during the review process.
It is expected that this practice will significantly facilitate the licensing process and reduce the time for reviewing applications.
” Hippodamos ” will be promoted in all local authorities for the exclusive digital submission of applications for all types of development.
“This reduces bureaucratic red tape and inconvenience to the public, and speeds up the processing time for applications,” the statement said.
At the same time, the working group began to develop guidelines for the implementation of uniform forms and procedures for the consideration of urban planning applications by all local authorities, in order to eliminate time-consuming bureaucratic procedures that often cause delays in issuing decisions. The guidelines will also include other procedures for which the city planning authority is responsible, such as identifying problems in development plans, problem-solving meetings with local authorities, etc.
Finally, the Ministry of Interior and Etek are preparing a training plan for both Etek members and the staff that will be hired in the next period to strengthen local government. The goal is to prepare and train them to properly submit and process applications so that there are no delays in issuing decisions due to incomplete applications.
The bill will be referred to the House Legal Services Committee in the coming weeks, as well as to the House Interior Committee for debate and a vote.
