Viability

It is important to remember that viability discussions do not take place in isolation.

As a planning authority we have to deliver sustainable development, and consider any applications in line with the policies in the adopted plan and any other material considerations. The policies in the plan need to be taken together and the plan must be read as a whole. The policies in the plan have been through various stages of consultation and a public examination by a Planning Inspector.

The policies https://www.southribble.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Viability Guidance.docx are supported by evidence, and this evidence, and the policies it supports, has been scrutinised through the plan-making process. In terms of viability, it is important to note that the policies and supporting evidence already:

• assume a reasonable level of profit for the developer
• assume a reasonable return for the landowner
• understand and allow for consideration of risk
• include buffers and allowances for uncertainty
• are mindful of the economic cycle
• have taken account of financing costs
• assumes no grant is available
• reflect local circumstances

Therefore, as the National Planning Practice Guidance acknowledges "Decision-taking on individual applications does not normally require consideration of viability."