Object

Preferred Options November 2021

Representation ID: 1728

Received: 13/12/2021

Respondent: St Philips Land Ltd

Agent: Lichfields

Representation Summary:

Uplifts to the minimum LHN figure
Both the NPPF and PPG are clear that the LHN figure generated by the standard method is a minimum
starting point. Therefore, the Council should actively identify whether there are reasons for testing higher figures as estimates of housing needs.

Affordable Housing
However, St Phillips notes that the Council’s affordable housing need, for its residents, actually equates to 53% of its LHN figure. Whilst it is true that the Council’s proposed annualised housing requirement (e.g. its LHN figure and GBBCHMA contribution) would enable it to meet its own affordable housing needs, the SSHMA does not appear to have given any consideration to whether the in-migration of households from the Black Country or Birmingham, resulting from this contribution, would also need affordable housing.

Economic Growth
The NPPF recognises the implicit link between economic growth and housing need, and that economic growth should not be decoupled from housing growth.
The EDNA is now markedly out of date in light of the implications of Covid-19 and Brexit and the Council intends to prepare an update prior to the Publication
version of the Local Plan Review. The above highlights the clear need to ensure sufficient homes are delivered within the District to align with the anticipated job growth.