HARD-UP developers facing a deficit of more than half a million pounds have applied to have an affordable housing pledge removed from their original plans – amid claims they might otherwise have to pull the plug on a 26-home estate for West Cumbria.
Outline planning permission was granted in August to RGG Developments to build on land behind Rusper Drive in Moor Row, subject to a S106-agreement which required the creation of a road and four affordable housing units on the site.
But now an assessment has been submitted by the applicant which argues that the affordable homes “would not be appropriate for the estate”. Planning officers at Copeland said: “It shows a financial deficit which could as a result jeopardise the overall financial viability of the proposed development.
“This arises as a result of acquisition costs amounting to more than the sales income, resulting in an estimated deficit of circa £538,000. This may result in the proposed development being unviable and undeliverable.”
The assessment has been reviewed by the council’s valuer who has supported the developer’s application.
Planning officers have also recommended that members agree to amend the S106 agreement.
The plea will be heard at a planning panel meeting today.
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