Decision details

To enter into a Planning Performance Agreement (PPA) with Barratt David Wilson and Vistry Partnerthips (the applicants) relating to the proposed development of up to 760 dwellings and associated infrastructure at Vearse Farm, Bridport. The PPA sets out commitments on behalf of the Council and the applicants in relation to the provision of pre-application advice, the processing of formal submissions to comply with conditions on the outline planning permission (WD/D/17/000986), and the processing of a Reserved Matters 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”. The Local Scheme of Nomination for Development Management and Enforcement includes delegation of these powers to the Service Manager for Development Management and Enforcement.

To set clear expectations for the provision of pre-application advice and the processing of applications relating to the Vearse Farm development, 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 provision of pre-application advice and the processing of applications within the timescales requested by the applicants. The PPA is considered to be beneficial to both parties, in terms of setting clear expectations, and the alternative option is therefore rejected.

No members have been consulted.