Policy information sourced from Sevenoaks Core Strategy

SP 3 Provision of Affordable Housing

In order to meet the needs of people who are not able to compete in the general housing market, the Council will expect the provision of affordable housing in all types of residential development including specialised housing. The location, layout and design of the affordable housing within the scheme should create an inclusive development.

The level and type of affordable housing required in any residential development will be assessed against the following criteria:

  1. In residential developments of 15 dwellings or more gross 40% of the total number of units should be affordable.
  2. In residential developments of 10-14 dwellings gross 30% of the total number of units should be affordable
  3. In residential developments of 5-9 units gross 20% of the total number of units should be affordable
  4. In residential developments of less than 5 units that involve a net gain in the number of units a financial contribution based on the equivalent of 10% affordable housing will be required towards improving affordable housing provision off-site

Where an element of affordable housing is required at least 65% of the affordable housing units should be social rented, unless the Council is satisfied that an alternative mix meets a proven need.

In exceptional circumstances where it is demonstrated to the Council’s satisfaction through an independent assessment of viability that on-site provision in accordance with the policy would not be viable, a reduced level of provision may be accepted or, failing that, a financial contribution towards provision off-site will be required.

Permission will be refused where the size of the development is artificially reduced to fall below the threshold requiring provision of affordable housing.

For more information please see the Core Strategy