Lichfields launches new Viability tool to aid the planning process

Lichfields has launched a new framework designed to help decision-makers and property developers better navigate local planning processes.
The planning and development consultancy’s Viability tool supports the promotion of sites, assesses evidence prepared to inform strategic plans and informs the presentation of evidence to local plan and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) examination.
It can be applied in a flexible way and shaped to reflect the increasing level of detail that is required as a strategic plan moves through the various stages of consultation towards submission, examination and adoption. This could include a high-level overview of viability issues to inform candidate site submissions, with additional detail provided as plans for the site and the local authority’s policy aspirations become clearer.
In addition, recognising the need for strategic plans to be flexible in responding to changing circumstances, Lichfields’ Viability tool can be applied at the planning application stage and inform the case for the renegotiation of viability where necessary.
Simon Coop, senior director and housing development group lead at Lichfields, said: “The combination of viability being front-loaded into the plan-making process and the standardisation of inputs is necessitating a change in approach. Understanding the relationship between planning policy and viability is critical.”
“Viability lies at the heart of the planning process and must be given due regard from the earliest stages of site promotion. Our robust framework helps decision-makers navigate this area of the system providing an evidence-led case for development at each phase of the planning process.”
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