Applications to build everything from business projects and houses to signs, fences and fascias are up on last year according to Sutton Council.

There have been 168 applications for minor developments - of 1,000sqm or less - in the first six months of this year compared to 142 in the same period of 2012.

Applications on private homes have also soared from 354 in the first six months of last year to 397 this year.

Councillor Richard Clifton, vice-chairman of Sutton Council’s housing, economy and business committee, said: "Sutton’s highly efficient planning department is working flat out to keep up with the applications that are flooding in.

"Opportunity Sutton, the borough’s economic growth plan, is encouraging businesses to locate in the borough so that could be part of the reason for the surge in applications. Sutton is not just surviving the recession, it is booming."

Among the projects Sutton Council has already given planning permission to this year is one which will involve the borough's tallest tower being built in Sutton Court Road and one to redevelop North Cheam eyesore Victoria House.

 

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