A CRITICAL review of the Isle of Wight Council's planning department has found a series of issues — ranging from a backlog of cases, breakdown in communication and reputational damage.

The review of the council was called for after recent challenges in the planning authority and committee led to arguments and infighting at County Hall.

The purpose of a peer challenge is to look at how authorities are performing — what they need to improve, what is trying to be achieved and how that is being done.

Officials from the Local Government Association (LGA) found there is a need to rebuild trust between councillors, officers and the community.

They must also work together effectively, the officials say, through a framework of respect for others and their differing views and motivations.

The LGA representatives found despite the arguments there was 'significant passion' on the Island for housing, development and growth but it was met with considerable opposition to housing developments, despite the 'post pandemic housing emergency'.

It was also said the council needs to urgently review its constitution and procedural rules as a matter of urgency.

The council is trying to address issues with the draft Island Planning Strategy (IPS) but has been stalled in trying to adopt the plan.

The LGA officials warned without the plan it was possible developments deemed not in the public interest could be approved.

The workload of planning officers was also highlighted as an issue as they try to manage significant caseloads as well as deciding applications.

It is said in the LGA's report, senior staff are being pulled in different directions, while others are under a 'great deal of pressure and stress'.

Statistics show the planning service is effective but officials found there was also a backlog of over 200 unresolved cases that are more than a year old and some more than four.

Officials also noted a lack of effective communication between councillors, officers and the public, which needs to change to improve understanding and build relationships.

A report with actions to be taken following the report's publication will be heard at the council's policy and scrutiny committee for neighbourhoods and regeneration next week.