Affordable Housing

National guidance together with current Local Plan policy and SPG seeks an element of affordable housing within suitable large residential developments. Within the city centre there is a demonstrable need for a range of dwelling types and sizes at affordable cost. Given its proximity to employment opportunities, services, shops and other facilities, St. George’s would generally be an appropriate location for affordable housing. There is therefore a strong case that affordable housing - of at least 30% of any scheme over 25 units - should be a ‘normal’ requirement.

The Council’s priority for St. George’s is in securing schemes which contribute to the area’s sustainable regeneration. The approach proposed in this guidance is to adopt a general presumption in favour of residential development on appropriate sites, providing that a reasonable range of planning objectives is met. While every effort will be made to secure the provision of affordable housing, there will be no pre-requisite for affordable housing as such. Affordable housing will be negotiated as part of planning consents on a site by site basis. This will allow flexibility in assessing the suitability of schemes which deliver different outputs in relation to differing circumstances. Financial appraisals are likely to be required to support certain proposals.

Early discussion on this issue with the appropriate development control officer is recommended.