In 1986, the Trust proposed and pioneered the use of 'exception' sites. These sites are not allocated for development in local plans/Local Development Frameworks. However, exceptional planning consent may be granted if:
The District/Borough Council has a local needs planning policy
The site is well-related to the village development boundary
There is a demonstrated current and likely future need for the proposed houses
The proposed scheme meets the demonstrated needs in terms of size, price and tenure
The proposed scheme conforms to all other planning policies, in terms of design, access, layout and materials
There are adequate safeguards to ensure that the houses remain available for local people in perpetuity and cannot become part of the open market
There is general local support, usually demonstrated through the Parish Council, for the use of the site for this purpose
This approach to building affordable housing in villages is mainstream policy. It is supported by national government. And it is accepted at parish level because the aims are clear, local participation is positively promoted and long term control of occupancy is guaranteed.
The Trust holds educational events on exception site policy for parish councils and district councils.
SeeProjects for the many exception site schemes we have developed around the country.
