The latest measures of how quickly local authorities deal with planning applications show that many have improved their speed - but few of these have managed to match the standard set by the most efficient of making decisions within eight weeks.

Planning Minister Nick Raynsford has issued a warning about changes due to come into effect in the spring.

"The new Best Value regime presents local planning authorities with an opportunity and a challenge," he said. "They have to undertake fundamental reviews of their performance and draw up demanding annual plans to improve it. Nationally specified Best Value indicators and targets will underpin the process."

He added: "I want all local planning authorities to seize the challenge and deliver real improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of the service they provide."

Only 27 authorities met or surpassed the target of deciding 80% of applications within eight weeks. 97 achieved at least 70%, and 36 managed fewer than 50%.

The good news is, these figures are substantially better than they were ten years ago.

Elliott Chase