Instead of having a requirement for at least 5% of plots on residential schemes over 40 dwellings to provide serviced self/custom build plots we suggest that a policy approach similar to that in the South Northamptonshire Local Plan (which has gone through examination but is not yet adopted) should be pursued. This offers a more flexible approach that is more appropriate to the custom build market.

It allows for small scale self-build sites immediately adjoining the confines of defined villages to be approved, rather than requiring them to be provided on allocated land. A similar policy could be drafted based upon the Greater Norwich development hierarchy. The South Northamptonshire Policy reads as follows:

1. Proposals for single self or custom build sites immediately adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres, Primary, Secondary (A and B) and Small Villages as defined in policy SS1 of this plan will normally be permitted where they help to meet demand as demonstrated by Part 1 of the Council’s Self and Custom Housebuilding Register and is compliant with other policies of this plan.

2. Proposals for two or more self or custom build sites immediately adjoining the confines of Rural Service Centres, Primary, Secondary (A) as defined in policy SS1 of this plan will normally be permitted where they help to meet demand as demonstrated by Part 1 of the Council’s Self and Custom Housebuilding Register and is compliant with other policies of this plan.

3. Housebuilders occupying a self or custom build dwelling will be required to demonstrate a local connection.

4. Reserved matters planning applications for custom build plots will need to be made by the intended occupier.

5. Proposals for custom and self-build dwellings will be controlled by the following means:
a) Developments of 10 or more custom build dwellings in a single site location are supported by a design code; and
b) Where plots have been made available and marketed and have not sold the Council will consider proposals for the development of housing in accordance with policy LH8 and LH10 where:
I) they have been actively marketed for self/custom build for at least 12 months; and
II) prior to the application being made they have been offered to the Council, a housing association or the town/parish council for the delivery of affordable housing products.