In residential developments of more than 10 dwellings, it will be expected that at least 30% affordable housing is provided.

Reduction of this percentage may be permitted for viability reasons. Any reduction or non-agreement between the developer and the Council will require an independent viability assessment.

Affordable housing within a development will normally be provided on-site unless exceptional circumstances should require it to be provided elsewhere with the agreement of the Council. Applicants will be required to submit justification for off-site construction or financial contributions.

Affordable housing within a development will normally be provided on-site unless exceptional circumstances should require it to be provided elsewhere with the agreement of the Council. Applicants will be required to submit justification for off-site construction or financial contributions.

Affordable housing will be incorporated into the overall design layout to avoid significant clustering of affordable housing. The design of affordable housing should make it indistinguishable from market housing.

Legal agreements with the Council will ensure that affordable housing benefits, for both affordable rented and intermediate housing, are secured for first and subsequent occupiers and retained as affordable.

For more information, please visit Harlow’s Local Plan here.