URL: https://democracy.breckland.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2417

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To consider a change to Breckland Council’s approach to the custom and self-build register including charging for elements that are not currently charged for as well as other amendments.

Content: To consider a change to Breckland Council’s approach to the custom and self-build register including charging for elements that are not currently charged for as well as other amendments. RESOLVED that:   1)     The Council’s Custom/Self-Build (CSB) approach be updated. This involves establishing a newly created, stand-alone, Breckland CSB Register and, in doing so, introduce locally set eligibility criteria and a fee   2)     Delegated Authority is given to the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Planning, to implement the updated approach, keep it under review, and make any necessary changes as required.   A statutory duty rests with the Council to establish and maintain a CSB Register. This Duty has, until recently, been met by virtue of a shared arrangement with other Norfolk Councils. However, recent change within the existing arrangement has coincided with amended legislation and an assessment of the Council’s approach. This provides the Council with an opportunity to review and refresh the current approach in accordance with national guidance.   Planning policy guidance is clear that, whilst it is not a requirement, there are significant benefits to Registers being refreshed and relaunched by councils, since they have now been in effect for some years.   As part of refreshing and relaunching our stand-alone CSB Register, the Council should consider the introduction of locally set eligibility criteria as well as the introduction of a fee.   The Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended by the Housing and Planning Act 2016) enables relevant authorities to include up to two optional local eligibility tests: (i) a local connection test; and (ii) a financial solvency test. The guidance upon this matter states an expectation that relevant authorities will apply one or both of these tests only where a strong justification exists for doing so.   Authorities are also advised to ensure that they provide clear information to individuals and groups on the rationale underpinning local eligibility tests and to consult upon proposals before introducing any eligibility test.   Guidance on the matter also suggests that the approach should be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate and that it is still achieving the desired effect.   See Cabinet report for further details. Option 1 – To agree the proposed recommendations in adopting a new CSB approach.   Option 2 - To pursue an alternative/amended approach.   Option 3 - Do nothing.

Date of Decision: November 11, 2024