Policy SB1 proposes a self-build and custom housing (SBCH) policy for new residential development proposals within the Borough which would be delivered as a fraction of the total number of units to be provided on site.

Landcrest is concerned that the inclusion of a policy with this specific kind of mechanism may have questionable success in delivering the appropriate levels of SBCH for the Borough’s citizens. Particularly, the policy is dependent on larger schemes in order to deliver sufficient levels of SBCH and indeed larger sites are well-known for their logistical difficulties in delivering units in a timely fashion as compared to smaller schemes. That aside, Landcrest would, in any case, question how much demand there would be for this type of housing as part of traditional volume house builder sites, and also raise the complications it inevitably creates around phasing, health and safety etc. There is then the question of whether appropriate numbers of SBCH can be delivered as and when needed during the plan period.

Furthermore, the figures required for contribution to SBCH on new schemes as per the tiers for contribution under Policy SB1 are on average lower than 10%. For schemes of 100+ this is by negotiation. Such low figures, and indeed uncertainty, for contributing to SBCH needs compounds on the ability of this Council to adequately provide SBCH in line with legal requirements.

Landcrest would support the inclusion of an alternate or additional policy for SBCH exception sites. These would function in effect similarly to rural exception sites and policies, for which there is already clear support for within the NPPF, but specifically address the need to provide sufficient levels of SBCH. The policy would be subject to of course appropriate criterion to prevent inappropriate development in inappropriate locations, but would nonetheless provide a unique opportunity and incentive for developers for bringing forward otherwise suitable sites for housing.