Member Article

Debate over new development levies in Leeds continues

Plans to introduce a new levy on developers for local infrastructure improvements in Leeds have been submitted for public scrutiny from the Planning Inspectorate.

The proposal is for a new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to raise funds to help support infrastructure such as public transport improvements, upgrading green spaces, and new schools.

The new levy would partly replace the existing system of planning obligations known as Section 106 agreements, particularly for infrastructure projects which require funding from a number of different sources.

It will be charged on most types of new buildings in Leeds, although not on householder extensions or self-build, development by not for profit organisations, affordable housing, or where the building replaces existing floorspace.

The council has held public consultation on the proposed levy rates and is now progressing towards a public examination. If approved by the examiner the levy is expected to be in force at the end of the year.

Councillor Peter Gruen, executive member for neighbourhoods, planning and support services said: “Central government changes mean have to implement a two tack system of charging developers for necessary infrastructure improvements.

“We are nearing the completion on the process of bringing in this new levy and feel we’ve achieved the right balance between generating funds towards paying for infrastructure across Leeds, and also ensuring that we encourage continued investment and growth.

“We’ve held extensive consultation throughout the process and now there’s further opportunity for comments and views on the modifications we’ve proposed.”

There is a 4 week public consultation on the recent modifications proposed since the previous consultation, which finished in December 2013.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .