Planning performance agreements

We have revised and enhanced the PPA process, focussing on improving the project management of major planning proposals to ensure that these are progressed within agreed timescales.

Our Planning Performance Agreement Charter sets out the benefits and responsibilities for each party of the agreement. We anticipate significant benefits for the developer, the community and us in using PPAs for major developments and we will work proactively with the development industry to deliver positive outcomes from this enhanced service.

We have worked proactively with the development industry and provided a comprehensive pre-application advice service to applicants and the provision of planning performance agreements to manage larger-scale developments. A best practice guide called Planning Positively Through Partnership, published by the Local Government Association, British Property Foundation and Home Builders Federation in association with the Planning Advisory Service, has recognised our use of PPAs as a great example of how to do business with the development industry.

The guide highlighted our best practice in terms of early engagement at plan-making, to set the scene for a smooth planning application process. The guide provides a case highlighting the positive partnership between us, Bloor Homes and its engagement with the local community to bring about the development of just over 100 new homes at Stanford Road, Shefford. This incorporated new affordable housing, a nature reserve, local road improvements and a new pedestrian/cycle bridge linking the local area to the town’s Millennium Green.

For more information regarding entering a Planning Performance Agreement, please contact our planning team to discuss.