affordable housing

At para 198 the Inspector finds: “The provision of affordable housing is a benefit. The viability assessments prepared and reviewed by the appellant and Council indicate that the viable position is zero provision, and I agree that this is reasonably accurate, considering my concerns set out in the relevant main issue above. That affordable housing has been provided, in a tenure split that is supported by
the Council, and both this and the provision in favour of larger units for family accommodation would target the greatest areas of need within the borough and would help to address a current supply shortfall. The proposed approach would contribute to the Framework’s objective of creating mixed and balanced
communities. Additionally, a higher future provision of affordable housing might be possible given the comprehensive review mechanisms set within the planning agreement. I allocate substantial beneficial weighting to affordable housing considerations.”

Herein are perhaps the most extraordinary findings. To find that 7.5% of the residential units can be a substantial benefit, that is approximately 65 units in a development of 1200, will not find favour with the local community. To assert that a higher future provision might be possible is highly debatable. You will search long and hard to find a development where affordable housing has been increased AFTER the initial permission.

What is far more likely, but wholly unrecognised, is that units will be sold to foreign investors or remain empty, as have the development at Teddington Riverside.