Members considered the recommendations from the Extraordinary Local Plan Panel meeting on 2 December 2020.

In relation to Minute No. 300 (1) the Cabinet Member for Planning, and Chairman of the Local Plan Panel referred to the offsetting of affordable housing against environmental benefits. He explained that brownfield sites had a lower yield because profits were lower.  The Cabinet Member for Planning explained that the overall affordable housing target for the Borough was 27.4%, and 30% on greenfield sites would therefore achieve the target and there was a danger that if the figure was set too high, it could be challenged at the EIP as there was not the evidence to back it up.  He said 40% would give a significant reduction in homes for life and he spoke in support of 20% affordable housing for brownfield sites and 30% for greenfield sites.  The Cabinet Member for Housing spoke in support of 20% for brownfield sites and 30% for greenfield sites.  A Member said there was a risk that a higher target of affordable housing might mean a higher target number of houses overall.

Resolved:

(1)  That Minute No. 300 (1) from the Extraordinary Local Plan Panel meeting held on 2 December 2020 be agreed subject to an amendment that Cabinet voted to approve 20% of affordable housing for brownfield sites and 30% for greenfield sites.

 (2)  That Minute No. 301 (1) be approved.