Object
Solihull Local Plan (Draft Submission) 2020
Representation ID: 15104
Received: 14/12/2020
Respondent: Taylor Wimpey
Agent: Lichfields
Legally compliant? Not specified
Sound? No
Duty to co-operate? Not specified
Taylor Wimpey accepts Policy P4E, in principle, and its focus on ensuring new developments provide a mix of dwelling size and type to meet the identified needs of older people and those with disabilities and special needs.
However, with regard to Parts 4 and 5 of this policy there is an inconsistency in how the Council will seek to enforce the policy. Part 5 suggests that this will be applied flexibility and, on a site-by-site basis. This position is supported by Taylor Wimpey. In contrast, Part 4 states that ‘all developments of 300 dwellings or more must provide specialist or care bedspaces…’ (Lichfields emphasis). This is not supported by Taylor Wimpey as the provision of this type of accommodation and/or facilities should be directed to those areas where there is an identified need.
The need for and location of the provision of such accommodation should be considered having regard to a range of factors - such as need at that time, market demand, location of similar facilities, location of the site etc.- and this is not necessary on all large, strategic sites.
Part 5: Add criterion 'v' to the sub-policy:
This policy will be applied flexibly, taking into account:
i. Site specific factors which may make step-free access unviable;
ii. The economics of provision, including particular costs that may threaten the viability of the site;
iii. Whether the provision of housing at these standards would prejudice the realisation of other planning objectives that need to be given priority in the development of the site;
iv. The need to achieve a successful housing development
v. Existing provision in the locality around the site and the demonstrable need for such provision at that location.
See Attachments