The Physical Planning Unit (PPU) is expected to strengthen its governance and improve its service delivery following a new performance audit.
The Performance Audit – Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Physical Planning Unit, commissioned by the National Audit in 2025, identified poor record keeping and weaknesses in financial management.
According to the report, these shortcomings reduce the reliability of operational data, and limit the department’s ability to assess its own performance.
Auditor General Marsha Meade explained that “operational weaknesses included poor data management practices, inconsistent inspection records, and approximately 20% of inspected sites lacked recorded application numbers.
There was also “missing application identifiers and the absence of formal service standards or productivity measures.”
Ms Meade noted that “these deficiencies reduce the reliability of operational data and limits the unit’s ability to assess efficiency and performance.
“Financial management weaknesses were also identified including fluctuating revenues, limited forecasting, and insufficient analysis linking financial performance to operational outputs.”
The audit recommended the introduction of a formal performance-management framework with clear performance targets, defined timelines for processing planning applications, and stronger monitoring of consultant contracts.
It also called for improved data collection and record-keeping, including stricter data-entry and verification procedures to ensure accurate and reliable information.
The report stated that implementing these measures will enhance transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making while improving services provided by the Physical Planning Unit.