Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

6. The Planning Process

6.1 Prospective applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposals at the earliest possible stage; through a preliminary enquiry (pre-application advice). Further information about this can be found on our website.

6.2 Engaging in a preliminary enquiry allows the design and potential 'heads of terms' of the S106 Agreement to be factored into the formulation of the development proposals at an early stage and can save time later in the process.

6.3 As part of the submission of a planning application on above threshold - level sites, the Council will expect an affordable housing statement. This should provide details of the number, mix, tenure, unit sizes (including number of bedrooms and persons) of affordable homes and how this reflects the overall mix, etc, along with the location of these units within the site. Applications should refer to the proportion of affordable units, specify how the mix and tenure will reflect that of the scheme as a whole and, express willingness to pepper pot across the site.

6.4 Where an application is received in outline, the appropriate contribution will be reserved through a planning obligation, so that it can be resolved when a detailed or reserved matters application is made, when the size of the development and the appropriate level of contribution will be known.

6.5 In addition to the provisions of this SPD, proposals for new housing will also be considered having regard to other relevant local policies, which include requirements for other planning contributions. Applicants are advised to seek preliminary advice from the Council where there is any doubt as to the policy considerations that will apply, prior to formally submitting their planning applications, to ensure all relevant policies are addressed.