Pre-Application Discussions and Performance Agreements

Pre-application discussions (PADs) are considered to be fundamental to 'front loading' the new development management system. This front loading will help all parties, both to prepare an application to a high standard and to establish an agreed course and timetable for determining a development proposal. To help create the conditions for a more efficient and high quality decision making process, performance agreements may be made available to developers proposing regionally significant and major developments. Whilst not a statutory requirement, performance agreements will formalise communication between the planning authority and the developer and other partners to bring about early engagement on projects, more collaborative working, project leadership and community involvement.