SWHI Chairman, Richard Kitson – former CEO of the Aster Group of housing associations – highlights the issues >>

Maybe the Government has got it right

Am I alone in thinking that the Government’s proposals for planning have some merit? Firstly, the previous regional strategies (whilst effectively... Read more...

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Policy and process

South West Affordable Housing, South Hams, Devon

South Hams is an area known for its distinctive and beautiful environment making it a popular choice for people purchasing a second home, but the high level of second home ownership in the district contributes to an acute shortage of affordable housing for local people.

Location: South Hams District Council takes a proactive approach to rural housing development and has contributed to 358 affordable homes since 1990, including 143 on exception sites. Recognising the link between the level of second homes and the high cost of housing in the district the council considered it appropriate to ring fence the additional revenue for affordable housing projects and was able to increase council tax charges on second homes from 50% to 100%, boosting the money available for affordable housing schemes.

Planning guidance for the district now requires 50% of housing to be affordable and its Local Development Framework will establish a headline housing target on greenfields in rural areas of 33% social rented housing, 33% other forms of affordable housing and 33% private market housing.

This target is supported by research including housing needs data and site viability studies. Each site is supported by a vision, developed in partnership with the Countryside Agency, which sets a benchmark for development to facilitate effective partner and community consultation.

The authority has concluded that exception sites will not deliver the scale of housing required and that it is essential for realistic land values to be established. South Hams has sought to allocate land for development to maximise the opportunity to secure investment in the community infrastructure.