Whilst Taylor Wimpey are understanding of the requirements set out under this policy, comments are made in response to the point that ‘affordable homes must be designed to be indiscernible from market homes, and affordable homes should be distributed throughout the site in small groups or clusters, in accordance with the guidance provided in the Greater Cambridge Housing Strategy Annexe 10: Clustering and Distribution of Affordable Housing (Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council, June 2021) or a successor document.’
The document referenced sets out maximum cluster numbers in relation to the total number of units proposed. For example, developments of 30 to 200 units must have maximum clusters of 15 units. Concern is raised on this point. It is considered that flexibility should be allowed for clusters to exceed the 15 unit restriction where this has been agreed with the relevant Registered Provider. The clustering of affordable housing units is generally a practical requirement for Registered Providers for management and maintenance reasons. As such, the policy should allow a degree of flexibility here.