Council’s online planning is still out of action

THE computer system at Scotland’s biggest local authority is continuing to be beset by technical problems more than a month after its IT system completely shut down.

Members of the public have been unable to view online planning applications at Glasgow City Council since the shutdown on December 15.

Email systems had failed after a server was accidentally sprayed by a fire extinguisher. Systems engineers were able to get the system up the following week, but not after it caused major headaches for people attempting to pay for council tax bills and even parking fines.

A warning message on the council website currently reads: “Our planning, building control and mapping systems are currently unavailable and we are working to reinstate these as soon as possible.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

The council could not say how long it would be before the problems relating to planning applications are resolved.

The IT systems went down after an air conditioning unit malfunctioned, releasing a gas which set off the fire alarm.

This then sprayed a substance used to extinguish flames all over the IT hub, which meant staff were unable to receive any emails for around five days.

A spokesman said experts are working on the problem but refused to comment on the impact this would have on current planning applications which are open for comments and objections.

Those who want to object or even view an application have to do so in person, by visiting the council offices on George Street.