Swindon Borough Council is one of the local authorities in the UK that uses Section 106 agreements as a planning tool to help manage the impact of new developments on the communities where they are located. In this article, we will take a closer look at what a Section 106 agreement is, how it works, and why it is important for developers and residents in Swindon.
What is a Section 106 Agreement?
A Section 106 agreement is a legal agreement between a developer and the local planning authority, which sets out the terms and conditions that must be fulfilled by the developer before planning permission can be granted. These agreements are usually used to mitigate the impact of new developments on the local area, such as providing affordable housing, improving public transport, or creating new green spaces.
In Swindon, Section 106 agreements are often used to support the Borough Council`s strategic priorities, such as promoting economic growth, encouraging sustainable development, and maintaining the quality of life for residents. This means that developers who want to build new homes or commercial properties in the area may need to agree to certain conditions before they can start work, such as contributing to local infrastructure projects or providing community facilities.
How does a Section 106 Agreement work?
When a developer submits a planning application to Swindon Borough Council, the planning officers will assess the proposal against the local planning policies and consider any issues raised by the local community. If the application is approved in principle, the Council will begin negotiations with the developer to agree on the terms of the Section 106 agreement.
The negotiations will typically involve discussions about what the developer can contribute to the local community, such as funding for a new school or a playground, or providing public art or landscaping. The agreement will also set out the timeline for completing the works and the penalties for non-compliance.
The final agreement will be a legally binding document that is attached to the planning permission. This means that if the developer fails to meet their obligations, the Council can take legal action to enforce the agreement.
Why is a Section 106 Agreement important for Swindon?
Section 106 agreements offer a number of benefits to the local community, including:
– Supporting the development of new homes and businesses while also addressing the impact on the local area.
– Encouraging developers to contribute to local infrastructure projects that improve the quality of life for residents.
– Ensuring that new developments are sustainable and meet the needs of the local community.
– Providing a transparent and accountable process for negotiating planning applications.
For Swindon Borough Council, Section 106 agreements are an important tool for managing growth and ensuring that development benefits the local area. They help to maintain the balance between economic growth and quality of life, and ensure that new developments support the long-term sustainability of the borough.
In conclusion, Section 106 agreements play a vital role in managing development in Swindon. By ensuring that new developments contribute to the local community, they help to create thriving and sustainable communities that benefit everyone who lives and works in the area. If you are a developer or resident in Swindon, understanding how these agreements work is essential for navigating the planning process.