This report aims to help English and Welsh councils and others involved in the planning system address the issue of capacity in planning departments, to assess current expectations of the planning system, to evaluate the extent to which government expectations have been communicated to stakeholders and to identify how councils can increase capacity. Finds that government objectives for the planning system are clear and consistent and have been well communicated to stakeholders although not all stakeholders agree with the agenda. Government focus on speed especially in relation to major planning applications is seen as having a negative effect on service quality in some councils. Concludes that although the shortage of experienced planners is affecting councils' ability to provide planning services, the private sector can provide comprehensive services under the direction of the planning authority.