viability
Councils are updating Community Infrastructure Levy rates and scrutinising developer viability assessments for housing projects.
Councils are currently updating how they assess the financial feasibility of development projects, known as "viability", often in relation to planning obligations. Croydon Council is revising its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charging schedule, which is based on outdated 2011 viability assessments, to better fund infrastructure. The council's Cabinet approved the proposed changes in September 2026, aiming to reflect current economic conditions and support local growth. The revised schedule is recommended for adoption by the Full Council.
Other councils are scrutinising developer viability assessments for housing projects. Newham Council's Strategic Development Committee deferred a decision on a housing development in Beckton in April 2026, citing concerns over affordability, developer profit, and the proposed housing mix. A councillor questioned the viability assessment presented by the developer for the proposed 79 new homes, highlighting the importance of genuinely affordable homes.
Key facts
- Croydon Council's Cabinet approved proposed changes to its CIL charging schedule in September 2026. Source
- Croydon's current CIL charging schedule is based on 2011 viability assessments. Source
- Newham Council's Strategic Development Committee deferred a decision on a housing development in Beckton in April 2026. Source
- A Newham councillor questioned the viability assessment for a proposed 79 new homes. Source
- Havering Council's Strategic Planning Committee approved plans for 106 new flats in Romford in March 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.