RESIDENTS have just over a fortnight to have their say on proposals for a new law which will secure hundreds of thousands of pounds of ‘vital’ investment in Malvern communities.
Once the legislation, referred to as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), is implemented it would impose a charge on developers building housing, supermarkets, warehouses and hotels in the district.
The money obtained would be invested in infrastructure and services such as transport, schools, community and sports facilities in the immediate area to any earmarked developments.
In Malvern the proposed levy rate is £100 per square metre for new hotels, retail warehouses, supermarkets, and student accommodation and £60 per square metre for houses.
Currently the plans would impose no charge for employment developments such as offices and trading estates.
The consultation period which has included meetings with town and parish councils as well as developers is due to end on Friday, November 8.
There will then be a second consultation next spring before documents are submitted for an independent examination in the summer.
Following potential council approval next autumn the CIL could be implemented for the start of 2015.
The consultation has been launched by the three authorities behind the emerging South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP) – Worcester City, Wychavon District and Malvern Hills District councils.
A public examination has recently been completed on the plan which has outlined more than 4,000 homes to be built in Malvern up to 2030.
Coun Judy Pearce, chairman of the joint advisory panel of the SWDP, said: “The funds we raise from the Community Infrastructure Levy will make a vital contribution to providing the essential facilities we need to realise the vision outlined in the South Worcestershire Development Plan.”
Visit www.swdevelopmentplan.org to take part in the consultation.
