Section 106 agreements are a crucial part of the planning process in the UK. They are legal agreements between developers, local authorities, and other stakeholders that establish obligations and requirements associated with a planning permission. These agreements are a way for local authorities to ensure that developers contribute to the infrastructure and community needs of the area in which they are building.
If you are involved in the drafting or reviewing of section 106 agreement documents, it is essential to understand the guidance and best practices associated with the process. Here are some key points to keep in mind when working with section 106 agreements.
1. Familiarize Yourself with Relevant Legislation and Guidance
Before you start drafting or reviewing a section 106 agreement, it is important to understand the relevant legislation and guidance. The primary legislation governing section 106 agreements is the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, as amended by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. There are also various guidance documents published by the government and professional bodies that provide further detail on the process and best practices.
2. Establish Clear Obligations and Requirements
The purpose of a section 106 agreement is to establish specific obligations and requirements that developers must meet as a condition of planning permission. It is important to ensure that these obligations are clear, specific, and enforceable. This may involve working with legal experts to draft the agreement in a way that is legally robust.
3. Consider the Local Context
Section 106 agreements should be tailored to the specific needs and context of the local area. This may involve consulting with local communities and stakeholders to identify priorities and needs. It may also involve considering the existing infrastructure and services in the area and how the development will impact them.
4. Ensure Provision for Monitoring and Enforcement
It is important to ensure that section 106 agreements provide for monitoring and enforcement of the obligations and requirements contained within them. This may involve establishing clear mechanisms for reporting and monitoring compliance, as well as specifying penalties for non-compliance.
5. Review and Update as Needed
Section 106 agreements are legally binding documents, but they may need to be reviewed and updated over time, especially if circumstances change. It is important to build in mechanisms for review and amendment as needed to ensure that the agreement remains relevant and effective over time.
In conclusion, section 106 agreements are a key part of the planning process in the UK, and it is essential to approach them with care and attention to detail. By familiarizing yourself with the relevant legislation and guidance, establishing clear obligations and requirements, considering the local context, ensuring provision for monitoring and enforcement, and reviewing and updating as needed, you can help ensure that section 106 agreements effectively contribute to the development of sustainable and thriving communities.
