Just going out for consultation...

Key changes are:

· Changes to the rules for new agricultural workers’ dwellings.
· Improvements to make it easier to build affordable housing in Shropshire, including changes to the definition of affordable housing.
· Introduction of minimum size standards for affordable properties.
· Helping builders’ cash-flow, by allowing a longer period in which to pay their affordable housing contribution.
· Developer contributions to affordable housing will remain at 13% until 31st March 2013, by which time the five yearly review of the viability assessment will be available to inform future rates.
· Supporting self-build in Shropshire.


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Excerpts...

"The timescales for paying financial contributions towards affordable housing have
been increased from 2 months after commencement to 12 months and 24 months
for larger and single dwelling developments respectively, to address concerns about
cash-flow problems for developers. The problem is particularly acute for self-build
projects and conversions. The proposed changes will make a significant difference
to assisting development without reducing the contributions made for much-needed
affordable housing."

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"The emphasis of the single plot “build your own” scheme has been clarified as
improving community resilience and sustainability. Changes were made to clarify
the procedures and requirements to qualify for the scheme. Applicants must have a
suitable site, in a recognisable named settlement, be eligible for the scheme on the
grounds of housing need, and meet local connection criteria. Further details have
been added to assist in a clear and consistent operation of the policy.

In assessing the suitability of a site for a single plot, the views of the Local Member
about whether it is in a “recognisable settlement” will be canvassed by the case
officer, whilst keeping the identity of the applicant confidential.

Where local residency is used as one of the criteria to support connection, it must
have been for at least 5 years."

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Full document here... http://www.shropshire.gov.uk/planningpolicy.nsf/open/8E41399C53C8A888802579350047DE62