We do not agree with a number of statements within Policy P4 as follows:
Policy 4A Affordable housing - we agree with a requirement of affordable housing in the Borough but disagree with the percentage proposed of 50% and comment further in Q12. We also consider that the statement "...where on-site provision is not feasible or viable there will be a financial contribution..." allows too much leeway to developers to opt for making a contribution meaning that affordable housing is being provided in concentrated sites rather than being spread equitably throughout new developments. We strongly believe that affordable housing should be integrated into communities by being part of a mix of housing provision not built 100% on one development which this policy may indirectly encourage.
We also highlight that in the vision paragraph for Hockley Heath (paragraph 84) that the statement reads "...and in Hockley Heath, affordable housing will have been provided to contribute towards the Borough's local housing needs." At our recent consultation event, residents identified a need for some new housing in HH but support a mix that would suit 'all pockets', especially the provision of bungalows or similar properties that would be accessible for elderly residents or those looking to downsize, not just affordable housing. Residents strongly feel that Hockley Heath should not be earmarked as available for development for affordable housing for the Borough, as this statement suggests. We are a small community with limited facilities and infrastructure which is already under strain from current occupancy levels and the development already approved. We would like this statement reworded to include Hockley Heath in the earlier part of the sentence with Knowle, Dorridge and Bentley Heath.
Policy 4B Rural exceptions - we do not consider these two criteria are sufficient to override building on green belt land particularly given the reductions to green belt land already proposed across the Borough. This policy encourages housebuilding decisions to be made on a stand alone basis rather than considering developments in a wider area. This policy statement is also inconsistent with our view stated above that affordable housing, where required, should be integrated into communities and provided alongside a mix of housing types.
Policy 4C Market housing - we agree with the proposed approach.
Policy 4D Self and Custom Housebuilding - addressed by Q13.