Bath and North East Somerset Council has launched a six-week public consultation, inviting residents and stakeholders to share their views on how developers should contribute more significantly to community infrastructure. This initiative comes ahead of the Local Plan Options consultation set for this autumn.
The council is proposing increased financial contributions from developers to support critical services such as home-to-school transport, GP surgeries, Early Years programs, and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision.
Councillor Matt McCabe, Cabinet Member for Built Environment, Housing, and Sustainable Development, emphasized the council’s proactive stance: “We are setting out our expectations clearly and in advance. Development for private profit must be matched by tangible investment in our communities. We are not waiting for the Local Plan options to be finalised to make this point. We are acting now to protect our residents and ensure that infrastructure and community benefits form a key part of the planning process.”
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The proposed guidelines are detailed in a draft Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) Interim Update, which outlines the council’s approach to securing developer contributions, also known as planning obligations. These contributions help mitigate the impact of new developments and align with the council’s priorities for sustainable growth.
Historically, millions of pounds collected through Planning Obligations have funded vital community projects, including school improvements, enhancement of green spaces, public realm upgrades, and highways enhancements throughout Bath and North East Somerset.
The consultation runs until 5pm on August 29. The council encourages residents, developers, and other stakeholders to participate and provide feedback on the proposed changes.
More information and details on how to take part can be found on the council’s website at www.bathnes.gov.uk/planningspdupdate.