The Best Guide for the West Somerset & Exmoor Area

West Somerset Council invite your views on approach to securing funds

Planning gains, the contributions that developers make to communities to offset the impact of their developments, are the latest area of the emerging Local Development Framework (LDF) up for public scrutiny and comment.

West Somerset Council has launched a new consultation to seek local people's views on how to update its approach to securing funds from developers to benefit communities affected by new developments.

Planning gains, which are also known as planning obligations or Section 106 agreements, are secured through negotiations between the council and developers as part of the planning application process.

Cllr Kate Kravis (pictured right), Lead Member for Development, said: "Planning gains are often associated with substantial developments. However, in West Somerset the trigger and scale of development for these agreements can be lower due to the relative size of settlements in comparison to urban areas such as Bristol.

"Planning gains can cover a wide range of benefits for communities, including affordable housing, open spaces, children's play areas, recreation, leisure, public art, education and infrastructure, including transport and highways."

The consultation, which runs until October 1, applies to the planning area outside of the Exmoor National Park Authority, which is developing its own LDF. This consultation is available in two formats: full, which includes contextual legal and policy material; and an easy-read concise version. These are available on the Local Development Framework pages of the council's website at www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk , and at the consultation website www.westsomersetsays.com  - or by phoning the council on 01643 703704.

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