at making the Planning Department more "user friendly''.

Starting in January, building permits for minor works can be approved within 24 hours, Ms Pamela Gordon said in a news release.

If applications were submitted before noon on a Tuesday, the approved documents could be picked up by noon on Wednesday.

"In order for the system to work, documents must be complete and accurate and received on time, before noon every Tuesday.'' "Incomplete and late submissions will not be accepted. This new system will run parallel to the existing building permit process.'' Ms Gordon said about 15 percent of all building permits were issued for minor works like sheds, small extensions, porch enclosures, internal renovations, or electrical permits for rewiring and new meters.

Applicants were advised to check with technical officers whether their projects are considered "minor''.

Ms Gordon said new site inspection cards were also being introduced to speed up processing and issuing of completion certificates.