9 Securing Affordable Housing: Conditions and Planning Obligations

Securing Affordable Housing: Conditions & Planning Obligations


9.1 Securing the affordable housing will be either by planning condition or planning obligation (under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990) as appropriate. Further details are included in the 'Major Planning Application Pack' available from Planning Services.

9.2 Where S106 agreements are to be used the Council has developed a model agreement in order to make the process as quick and consistent as possible. This model acts as the basis for all agreements in respect of affordable housing and will be tailored to the circumstances of specific sites.

9.3 Matters to be covered in planning agreements may include clauses to:

  1. Ensure dwellings and/or land are transferred to a Registered Social Landlord at the agreed price.
  2. Name the Registered Social Landlord.
  3. Identify the plot numbers of the affordable dwellings and units and show their location on a plan.
  4. Refer to the Housing Corporation's Design and Quality Standards, and any Registered Social Landlord Development standards that must be met when constructing the affordable housing.
  5. If appropriate, ensure the provision of a financial contribution in lieu of housing units. Include a schedule for payment arrangements.
  6. Ensure the units remain affordable in perpetuity.
  7. Prevent occupation of a specified proportion of the general market housing units until the affordable housing has been transferred to the Registered Social Landlord.