Gladman support the current approach of draft Policy H4 which proposes different levels of affordable housing provision depending on location within the district as assessed within the Housing and Economic Development Needs Assessment 2022 (HEDNA) and the viability. Gladman further welcome the flexibility within the policy which allows for reduced rates of affordable housing where viability concerns exist.

Gladman support the provision of affordable housing on site but consider that all affordable housing requirements are tested thoroughly to ensure that they are viable and deliverable alongside the other policy requirements of the Local Plan. The Local Plan should consider that the NPPF determines a minimum affordable housing requirement of 10%, and that it is preferred that a proportion of affordable housing are First Homes.

The supporting text also details the overall housing mix for residential development as defined by the HEDNA 2022. Gladman recognise the need to ensure that a mix of house types, sizes and tenures are delivered to support choice and competition, but consider that the policy requires a degree of flexibility to ensure the provision reflects local need, site characteristics and market aspirations.