The policy direction sets out that 5% self / custom dwellings need to be provided within developments. Persimmon Homes understand that local authorities have a duty to have regard to this register and grant pllanning permission for enough suitable plots to meet the identifed demand. The Topic Paper supporting this policy sets out high level figures and references to experiences of local agents. Persimmon Homes would request that a more detailed evidence base is issued as part of the next local plan consultation to allow a full review as to whether this percentage is justified. Also the local auhtority needs to set out how different approaches in addition to planning policy have been considered.

Whilst the direction of the policy includes a cascade mechanism, Persimmon Homes are of the view that this should be amended to period of 6 months whereby if a plot remains unsold it should revert back to the developer to be delivered as part of the overall scheme. If demand is there for self/ custom build housing a plot would be sold within this timeframe.