What are Section 106 agreements used for?

When a planning application is submitted to the council, the application is reviewed to establish whether the development would cause significant impact to the area and community and consequently whether a S106 agreement is needed.

The requirements of the S106 will vary depending on the nature of the development, and the impact on the local area. Planning obligations are often used to secure affordable housing (either on-site or as a financial contribution in lieu of on-site provision), or to obtain financial contributions to secure infrastructure, for example, recreational facilities and highways. In addition, they can also be used to restrict use of the land or the development itself.

The most common obligations include:

• Affordable housing
• Public open space/play area
• Highways
• Education