Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) for major and strategic projects
For larger, complex developments, consider a Planning Performance Agreement (PPA). A PPA is a project management framework used for larger, more complex developments. It involves early engagement between developers, the planning service, and other stakeholders before submitting a planning application. It moves the emphasis of the planning process away from arbitrary deadlines, towards a structured timetable and negotiated solutions that are agreed by both parties.
Benefits of PPAs are:
- Efficient resource use for developers and authorities
- A dedicated planning officer, who will act as a ‘go-to’ person within the authority and take responsibility for delivering on the aims of the PPA
- Transparent engagement
- Collaborative working
- Realistic timetables with key milestones
- Early problem identification and review
- Formal framework for stakeholder collaboration
Entering a PPA ensures early engagement about a development proposal in an open manner, aiming to steer it through the planning system and achieve better development. However, a PPA does not guarantee planning permission.
PPA + Enhanced Engagement
The largest and strategic development proposals may choose to make use of the PPA+ service which includes enhanced engagement, with opportunities to discuss and present proposals with senior officers and the Council’s corporate and political leadership. Where appropriate, at the pre-application stage, a PPA scheme may be presented to the Council's Planning Applications Committee and Growth and Investment Panel.
For larger, complex schemes, Planning Applications Committee members may receive a technical briefing after submission but before the committee meeting.
Post Consent PPAs
Post Consent PPAs follow the same approach as PPAs and may cover all post-approval matters, like discharge of conditions, s106 obligations and amendments, to ensure these are dealt with in a timely fashion.
Resourcing the project
The staff resources needed for a PPA will depend on the nature and complexity of the scheme. As a bespoke service, there is a charge for this service, and this will be negotiated before work starts on the project.
Contact us
If you are interested in entering a PPA, contact:
Shane Baker, Head of Strategic Applications.
Email: sbaker1@lambeth.gov.uk