The Almshouse Association’s response to the Government consultation Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill: Reforms to the National Planning Policy.
A once in a decade opportunity to address a gross imbalance of opportunity for almshouse charities; The Secretary of State has opened a consultation to review aspects of the Levelling up Bill and has asked us directly if we will respond to an issue that we have been driving for change, Section 106.
Many members will have heard Almshouse Association CEO Nick Phillips challenge government departments on the wording of the eligible affordable housing aspect of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) surrounding section 106. Currently, the definition of “affordable housing” excludes almshouse charities unless registered as Regulated Social Housing (a regulation that brings its own challenges).
In this consultation paper the Secretary of State has identified our concerns and we feel it is absolutely right that we take this opportunity to respond vigorously and clearly to change the definition of affordable housing to include almshouses.
Please see our draft response here and I would welcome any feedback before we officially issue our response on 25 February 2023.
Success – review of Sec 32 Social Housing Bill.
The Association has just received confirmation concerning the terms of clause 32 of The Social Housing Bill where it was stated that the Regulator may take action in the case of charities that are not Registered Providers. It has been confirmed that this will now only affect Regulated Housing Providers and NOT charities that are simply trusts and are non-registered.
This is a great relief for many members; not that they fear the Regulator interests, rather that they fear loss of their independent charity status.
We would like to thank all parties in helping making this “clarification” in the amended Bill.
posted 30 January 2023