Please read these options together with the policy for rural exception sites
Option A
In terms of the location of rural exception sites, set no prescriptive approach in the policy and simply rely on the NPPF definition of Rural exception sites as ‘Small sites used for Affordable Housing in perpetuity, where sites would not normally be used for housing. Rural exception sites seek to address the needs of the local community by accommodating households who are either current residents or have an existing family or employment connection. A proportion of market homes may be allowed on the site at the local planning authority’s discretion, for example where essential to enable the delivery of affordable units without grant funding.’
Advantages
- Reflects national policy.
Disadvantages
- Unclear where ‘rural exception sites' policy applies.
Option B
Set out in the policy where and to which settlements rural exception sites policy will apply, in line with the emerging rural areas strategy to support rural communities.
Advantages
- Provides clarity on policy.
Disadvantages
- Would not be applicable to all settlements (those not listed).