Policy information sourced from the Hertsmere Local Plan Core Strategy
CS4 Affordable Housing
To increase the supply of Affordable Housing, developments of 5 self-contained, residential units or more (gross), or residential sites of more than 0.2 hectares, should make provision for an element of Affordable Housing. On sites of fewer than 15 units, this may be delivered through the provision of intermediate housing (including shared ownership and share equity), with sites of 15 units or more containing a mix of social rented housing, affordable rent and intermediate housing.
The following percentage targets will be sought through negotiation:
- 40% in post code areas EN5 4, WD25 8, WD7 8, WD7 7;
- at least 35% in all other locations;
Appendix 6 provides a map of the post code areas within Hertsmere.
The policy equates to an affordable housing target of 1,140 from 2012 to 2027.
The Council will seek the maximum level of Affordable Housing on site. A lower level of provision will not be acceptable unless the Council agrees exceptional circumstances are demonstrated. Only in exceptional circumstances will an alternative to on-site provision be appropriate.
As a guideline, on sites of 15 or more units (gross) or 0.5 hectares, the Council expect that 75% of the Affordable Housing units will be delivered as social rented and/or affordable rent housing and the remainder as intermediate housing. The precise tenure and dwelling mix will be agreed with the Council on a site-by-site basis and reflecting current housing needs or updated supplementary guidance.
Where scheme viability may be affected, developers will be expected to provide full development appraisals to demonstrate an alternative affordable housing provision.
For more information please see the Hertsmere Core Strategy