Notice of Consultation on the introduction of Local Connection Eligibility Test for the Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Register
Notice is hereby given that Stratford-on-Avon District Council is undertaking public consultation on the creation of a two-part Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Register through the introduction of a local connection eligibility test.
Since 2016 the Council has maintained a combined Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Register. This provides the Council with data to better understand the demand for this type of housing in the area and plan for future needs.
The Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (the Act) and Planning Practice Guidance states that Local Authorities that maintain a Register can implement a local connection test. This would mean the register would include two separate parts:
- Part 1: entries with a local connection
- Part 2: entries with no local connection
The Act places a duty on the Council to grant enough ‘development permissions of serviced plots of land’ to meet the demand shown in Part 1 of the Register (but not specifically for those on the register). The entries on Part 1 together with the entries on Part 2 give the Council an indication of the overall interest in self-build and custom housebuilding.
The Council is inviting views on its proposals to split the Register into Parts 1 and 2 and the nature of the local eligibility criteria to join Part 1. Further information (including a list of the proposed eligibility criteria) is available on the Council’s website at www.stratford.gov.uk/scbregister
This consultation commences on Monday 24th July 2023. All comments must be received by the District Council by 5.00pm on Friday 11th August 2023.
Comments are invited on any aspect of the proposal. Responses can be made via an on-line comment form using the link on the website or by downloading a form and emailing it to policy.consultation@stratford-dc.gov.uk
For further information, please contact Planning Policy on 01789 260320 or email planning.policy@stratford-dc.gov.uk
John Careford MRTPI FIPM
Head of Development
Stratford-on-Avon District Council
