On behalf of Southern & Regional Developments, Claremont Planning recognises the purpose and importance of delivering mixed communities; in turn providing affordable housing at appropriate levels within development schemes. However, the apparent under-provision of affordable units within the District does not demonstrate policy success, rather that an inconsistent application of policy has thwarted its effectiveness. This is not to say that the original policy levels and method of provision is ineffectual.

Proportion - Option D is the most appropriate to pursue, as there is clearly an issue in implementing the affordable policy currently given the acknowledged affordable homes shortfall by the Council. To ensure emerging policy is effective, the LPA should demonstrate that it can maximise the current threshold of 35% of affordable homes before assessing as to whether to increase this proportion. The delivery of higher proportions of affordable units should be considered a material benefit of a potential scheme.