Decision details

Decision: 

To enter into a Planning Performance Agreement (PPA) with Swanage Town Council (the applicant) relating to the provision of pre-application advice and consideration of a planning application for the Swanage Green Seafront project. The PPA sets out commitments on behalf of the Council and the applicant in relation to the provision of pre-application advice and consideration of an anticipated planning application. There is a fee associated with the PPA to ensure that the Council can meet its obligations. The PPA does not fetter the Council in any way from exercising its statutory duties as the Local Planning Authority and does not prejudice the outcomes of any planning decisions.  

The decision to enter into the PPA is taken under delegated powers, as set out in paragraph 136 of the Officer Scheme of Delegation. Paragraph 136 provides delegated powers to “undertake all action in respect of administering / processing any application under 

any of the Town and Country Planning Legislation including the power to … (n) enter into planning performance agreements”. The Local Scheme of Nomination for Planning Services – Executive Director of Place includes delegation of these powers to the Service Manager for Development Management and Enforcement. 

To set a clear timetable and a commitment for dedicated officer time for the provision of timely pre-application advice and assessment of one set of amended plans/additional information during consideration of a formal planning application (if required), and to secure an appropriate fee to enable the Council to meet these commitments. 

The alternative option of not entering into a PPA would mean that the Council would not be able to commit to the timescales set out or the dedicated officer time. The PPA is considered to be beneficial to both parties, in terms of setting clear expectations and ensuring that any issues can be addressed at an early stage, and the alternative option is therefore rejected.