A guide to submitting an objection to the Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for the Land East of Gamston and North of Tollerton. It focuses on Viability, which is a key Material Planning Consideration.
Scroll down for the ‘How to structure your objection’ guide!
What Is Viability?
Viability refers to whether a development can afford to deliver the infrastructure, affordable housing, and environmental protections required by planning policy. If a site is not viable, it may not be able to deliver what the community needs.
Why This Matters for residents of Rushcliffe
The SPD allows developers to reduce or delay their obligations if they claim the site is not viable. But:
The Greater Nottingham Strategic Plan Viability Study (Sept 2024) already shows this site is not viable, even with more homes (up to 4400).
That study does not include costs for contaminated land remediation or highways upgrades, which are essential for this site.
Without full funding, the development could fail to deliver schools, healthcare, transport, and affordable housing.
How to Structure Your Objection
Use your own words, but try to include the following elements:
1. Quote the SPD
Refer to Section 5.17 to 5.22 (page 88-89) of the SPD, which discusses viability and developer obligations.
2. Refer to the Strategic Plan Viability Study
Mention that the Greater Nottingham Strategic Plan Viability Study (Sept 2024) shows the site is not viable, even with increasing housing numbers to 4400.
3. Explain the Risks
Say why this matters:
The site may not deliver promised infrastructure.
Developers could avoid obligations.
The SPD lacks clear review mechanisms and transparency.
4. Refer to Planning Policy
Mention:
NPPF Paragraph 34 (deliverability)
NPPF Paragraph 58 (transparency in viability)
Rushcliffe Local Plan Policy 19 (developer contributions)
5. Request Specific Changes
You could ask for:
Publication of all viability assessments
Clear triggers for viability reviews
No approval of applications until full costs (contamination, highways) are included
Example Phrases You Can Use
Please adapt these into your own words:
“I am concerned that the SPD allows developers to reduce their obligations without sufficient safeguards.”
“The Greater Nottingham Strategic Plan Viability Study shows this site is not viable, even with more homes.”
“The SPD does not account for contaminated land or highways costs, which will greatly affect viability.”
“Without stronger review mechanisms, the SPD risks enabling underfunded and unsustainable development.”
Where to Send Your Objection
The email address is: localdevelopment@rushcliffe.gov.uk