In early 2007 the council lowered the threshold to 15 units as a result of government guidance. This recent appeal decision is in the public realm and makes the following points:

• The Council cannot apply its lower threshold and must revert to the higher threshold in the local plan of 25 dwellings.
• Any lower threshold can only be identified following thorough analysis of the local housing market's condition and its viability.
• A lower threshold must only be adopted through the Council’s new local development framework.

Further Advice
Although the appeal decision relates to Leicester City Council it should also be applicable to other Local Authorities.

In light of this we believe there is an opportunity to reassess applications determined under the lower threshold and to submit new applications based on the new higher threshold of 25 units. It may be prudent to act promptly as the council are likely to reassess this threshold over the coming months.

rg+p are happy to discuss schemes on an individual basis. Please contact either Andy Ward, our Planning Consultant or any of our architectural directors in the office for further details and guidance.

rg+p
130 New Walk
Leicester
LE1 7JA
design@rg-p.co.uk

Tel: 0116 2045800.