This report advises on the implications of the Hambleton decision making in light of the High Court’s decision regarding the Ministerial Statement of November 2014 and the related changes to national policy in respect of the provision of affordable housing and infrastructure.

In accepting the recommendation, Cabinet will recommend that Council withdraws the policy to implement the lower threshold triggering the requirement for affordable housing and tariff style contributions on sites of six or more units in ‘designated rural areas’ which was adopted in July 2015.

The subject of the decision:

This report provided advice on the implications for Council decision making in light of the High Court’s decision regarding the Ministerial Statement of November 2014 and the related changes to National Policy in respect of the provision of affordable housing and infrastructure.  The report recommended withdrawal of the Council’s policy to implement the lower threshold triggering the requirement for affordable housing and tariff style contributions on sites of six or more units in ‘designated rural areas’ which was adopted in July 2015.

Alternative options considered:

None.

The reason for the decision:

To take account of the High Court’s decision and to comply with the requirements of Section 157 of the Housing Act 1985.

THE DECISION:

That Cabinet approves and recommends to Council the withdrawal of the Council’s policy to implement the lower threshold triggering the requirement to make cash payments towards the provision of affordable housing on schemes of six and ten units for those parts of the District that are Designated Rural Areas.