Planning performance agreements (PPAs) are designed to address some common problems encountered during the planning process, such as timescales, resources, and the quality of applications and decisions. PPAs provide a framework and a collaborative and project management approach for delivering good quality planning and development outcomes.

Some key potential benefits of using a PPA include:

• Establishing a better understanding of a project's needs, including management of resources, and the scope of collaborative working
• Setting a realistic timetable relevant for the size and complexity of the application and defining key milestones
• Minimising the risks and costs of appeal
• Enabling identification of problems and a method of reviewing these
• Providing a formal mechanism for parties, including key stakeholders, to collaborate.

Discussions should ideally commence before or during the pre application stage. The fee schedule depends on the complexity of the application and whether a meeting is required. A standard template agreement can be used and should be supplied with the PPA request. Further information is available by emailing planningsupport@epsom-ewell.gov.uk.