Amersham Town Council (ATC) has objected to the government’s proposal to remove the minimum 25 per cent First Homes requirement.
ATC’s statement comes in response to the government’s proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other changes to the planning system, as announced on Tuesday, September 24.
The NPPF changes aim to achieve “sustainable growth” in the planning system, but ATC objects to the specific proposal detailed under Chapter 6 of the government document.
The Chapter 6 policy currently requires that a minimum of 25 per cent of all affordable homes secured through developer contributions should be First Homes, according to the House of Commons Library.
A document posted on ATC’s website on Monday, October 28, reads: “The town council objects to removing the minimum 25 per cent First Homes requirement.
“The council believes that developments should ensure an adequate housing stock to provide homes for the younger generation, to encourage them to stay in the local area, as well as smaller homes for the elderly.
“There is a clear need to provide homes for young people. Affordable housing should also incorporate a proportion of social housing. The best way to achieve these aims would be for the percentages to be mandated.
“In terms of design of new dwellings, the key focus should be on sustainable low-carbon development, so applications for sustainable development should be supported.”
The council commented generally on the proposed changes: “Members feel central government should provide greater support to enable principal authorities to build capability within the planning departments, in order to speed up the planning process.
“Planning authorities are currently under-resourced and government support would help to accelerate the application process.”
To see ATC’s full report, please visit www.tinyurl.com/2r6kxbsn
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