Planning process document formally adopted by Full Council

Following a consultation on the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) a decision has been taken at the meeting of the Full Council on 20 September to formally adopt the document.

Planning obligations, also known as Section 106 Agreements or planning gain, are legal agreements between the landowner and the council. They are used to overcome any negative impacts of a development or to control the nature of a development.

The new SPD sets out in detail guidance and information for developers about the obligations – also known as developer contributions - the council or other agencies including the County Council or Integrated Care Board may seek to mitigate any possible impact of development within the district.

This includes obligations on matters such as the provision of open space, sports pitches and allotments and extra GP surgeries. It also sets out how any financial obligations will be calculated. These obligations are triggered where a development includes 10 or more dwellings, or if the site is 0.5 hectares or more.

Councillor Stuart Richardson, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Growth, said: “The SPD has been produced to support and expand on current policy in place to give the council a sound, up-to-date policy basis for seeking and calculating financial and physical planning obligations. 

“It will mean that the council is no longer reliant on older, out-of-date documents to secure planning obligations, keeping our decision-making accurate and reflective of current policies in place.

“By promoting a consistent and transparent approach, developers and landowners will be able to take into account the potential costs of a proposed development at the earliest stage.  

“They can be assured that they are making a fair contribution to the infrastructure needed to support growth, and residents can understand how proposed development in their area will be accommodated.”

The Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document can be viewed at www.mansfield.gov.uk/spd

A paper copy of the SPD and Adoption Statement is also available to view at reception in the Civic Centre, as well as libraries in the district over the coming week.

Published: September 30th 2022