Planning Performance Agreements (PPA)

A planning performance agreement (PPA) is an agreement between the local planning authority and a potential applicant.

The benefits of a PPA

The benefits of using this service are:

  • certainty of timescales for reaching a decision and having a specific planning committee date to work towards
  • a project-managed application process that includes a range of professionals
  • the opportunity to discuss changes to applications as they arise
  • access to officers and consultees to enable constructive discussion on planning applications
  • named officer contact, so you can discuss your application when you need to

PPA stages

There are three stages where a PPA may well be appropriate.

1. Pre-application stage

For complex schemes which will involve a number of pre-application meetings. Our preferred option is to enter into a PPA. This will include a dedicated planning officer for the project and the opportunity to discuss the scheme. and inform the development of the proposal.

2. Application stage

Determining major planning applications within the statutory 13 week time frame can be complex. If a PPA is in place then this will allow a more bespoke project management approach. It will allow engagement, negotiation and determination of planning applications to sit outside of the 13 week statutory time frame.

Where a planning application for a major development proposal is submitted without a PPA, it will be determined without the lengthy dialogue that a PPA allows. A PPA will help ensure a major application is processed to an agreed timetable with meetings to help overcome issues that arise during the application process.

3. Post decision stage

The PPA process can be used to cover the planning work required post decision. These include condition discharge applications and making amendments to the approval.