Skip to main contentAccessibility Statement
  1. Home
  2. Planning and building control
  3. Planning applications and enforcement
  4. Enhanced Planning Service

Planning Performance Agreements

A Planning Performance Agreement (PPA) is a collaborative approach to working with West Northamptonshire Council throughout the planning process. 

It helps to shape development proposals, resolve potential conflicts with planning policy, involve key stakeholders and the community, and ensure a high-quality outcome within agreed timescales.

A PPA is a project management tool that establishes a voluntary agreement between the applicant/developer and the Council. 

It sets out the:

  • resources required, including specialist officers and project management support
  • roles, responsibilities, and actions expected from all parties
  • key milestones and estimated timescales
  • approach to community engagement
  • other relevant considerations, such as planning obligations (Section 106 agreements)

PPAs typically begin at the pre-application stage and can continue through the formal planning process and post-decision stages. However, they can also be initiated at any point before a formal planning application is submitted. 

While PPAs can be used for any type of application, they are particularly beneficial for large or complex developments.

Entering into a PPA

To set up a PPA, applicants must provide key details to ensure the agreement is tailored to meet the needs of all parties involved. 

This includes:

  • a description of the proposed development, including the number of units or floorspace
  • the type of application (full, outline, or hybrid)
  • a site location plan identifying the area concerned
  • details of land ownership and promotion arrangements, outlining relevant stakeholders
  • information on previous pre-application discussions (if applicable)
  • an estimated number of pre-application meetings and written responses required
  • a list of key consultees to be involved in the process
  • proposed timescales for submission and determination of the application

A PPA helps ensure a structured, efficient, and transparent planning process, leading to better outcomes for both developers and the community.

Contact us

To provide the information required to set up a PPA, please email [email protected]. We will use this information to create a draft PPA and calculate the relevant fee.

Last updated 02 April 2025