Next week in Boston a developer will ask for, and more than likely receive, lenience to drop more than £260,000 in financial contributions to health and education for a 61-home build.
Putting that together, the four “affordable” properties set to be missing from the scheme would result in an estimated average saving of £145,621.60 to the developer on top of the financial contribution – £405,621.60 saved in total.
Seagate Homes is by no means the only developer to say “hang on, we can’t afford that” when asked to stump up cash for the services their developments will undoubtedly impact on.
Unfortunately, the viability assessments they submit are independently reviewed and more often than not support the application.
Local Democracy Reporters across the nation are sharing similar stories.
In Bracknell earlier this year, developers standing to make a £560,000 profit from 12 flats paid just £2,500 contribution towards affordable housing – having originally been asked for £140,393.50. They also paid £111,000 towards “infrastructure”.
In a way, it’s understandable that developers want to save money where they can. They are, after all, businesses in their own right and out to make a profit.
And if a council receives a viability assessment it can’t argue with then it has to start from a tough negotiating position.
As more and more homes are built, the chorus of residents calling for better, improved infrastructure, roads and schools, doctors and even green spaces to combat climate change, is becoming louder.
But the thing is, the developers will more than likely not be the ones facing the consequences. Perhaps it’s time for another look at their social responsibilities.
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