In the labyrinth of town planning and property development regulations, the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) emerges as a critical consideration for homeowners and architects embarking on construction projects. The CIL, designed to support the infrastructure needs of local authorities, can significantly impact the budget of any development project. This makes understanding and correctly applying CIL charges not just beneficial, but essential.

The Challenge in Farnham

A striking example of navigating CIL complexities is the case of a family buying a home in Farnham, who found themselves in a perplexing situation when trying to extend it to meet their needs before moving in. They planned a simple enough project: a brick extension to the home, coupled with the demolition of an existing detached garage. Yet, the council’s CIL liability notice presented an unexpected challenge. The notice inaccurately calculated the charge, failing to account for offsetting the existing floor area of the garage that was to be demolished, and instead, incorrectly assessed the charge based solely on the new extension.

ET Planning to the Rescue

Recognising the error, the homeowner turned to ET Planning, a firm renowned for its expertise in the nuanced field of planning regulations. ET Planning’s adept understanding of CIL regulations enabled them to identify the oversight promptly. The firm initiated a regulation 113 appeal on behalf of the homeowner, a crucial step that must be taken within 28 days of receiving the council’s liability notice.

The appeal process was navigated with precision. ET Planning prepared a compelling case, underlining the council’s oversight and referencing the relevant plans approved in the planning permission alongside CIL form 1. This meticulous approach prompted the council to reassess and recalibrate the CIL charges.

Triumph Over Tribulation

The result of this diligent effort was a resounding success. Waverley Borough Council acknowledged the appeal, issuing a new, corrected CIL liability notice. This rectification led to an astonishing £20,000 saving for the homeowner, a testament to the critical importance of vigilance and expertise in handling CIL documentation.

Lessons Learned

This case underscores several key points for homeowners and architects alike:

• Immediate Review: Upon receiving a CIL liability notice, it’s imperative to review the document without delay. Any discrepancies must be identified swiftly to allow for timely action.
• Understanding the Appeal Window: The 28-day window to lodge an appeal against a CIL liability notice is narrow but vital. Understanding this timeframe is essential in safeguarding against unjust charges.
• The Value of Expertise: The complexity of CIL charges and the regulations surrounding them necessitate professional insight. Firms like ET Planning bring invaluable expertise, ensuring accuracy and fairness in the application of CIL charges.

ET Planning: Your CIL Navigator

In the realm of planning applications, planning appeals, and enforcement consultancy, ensuring the correct application of CIL charges is but one facet of the comprehensive services offered by ET Planning. This success story in Farnham not only saved a homeowner a significant sum but also highlighted the critical role of expert consultation in the planning process.

Should you find yourself in a similar situation or in need of guidance on development viability, planning enforcement, or any other planning-related matter, ET Planning stands ready to assist. Our Economic division is adept at navigating these complexities, ensuring that your project proceeds smoothly and cost-effectively.

Reach out to us at the first sign of discrepancy or for any planning-related queries. Let ET Planning be your advocate in the intricate world of town planning and property development, saving you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

Contact the ET Planning Economic division at the earliest sign of discrepancy, and let us navigate the complexities on your behalf, saving you time and money. 

Discover more about how we can assist with your planning needs.