Harrow to consult on Community Infrastructure Levy charges

The Council has agreed to keep its proposed CIL Charging Schedule simple and proposed to charge three different rates that would be fixed across the Borough. The levy would be charged on new developments and the rate would be dependent on both the planned use for the space as well as its size.

Following the Council's cabinet approval, the Preliminary Draft Charging Schedule (16-Pages / 145KB PDF) will be published and opened up to a six week consultation. The Council hopes that the final Draft Charging Schedule will be submitted for examination in January 2013, with implementation planned for June or July 2013.

The Council has proposed to levy a charge of £110 per square metre for all residential development across the Borough. This is in addition to the Mayoral CIL that was adopted in April 2012.

For other residential institutions, including student accommodation, hostels and houses in multiple occupation, the Council has proposed a charge of £55 per sq m of development. The proposed rate would not apply to hospitals.

For all retail development, financial and professional service, drinking establishments and hot food takeaways, the Council has proposed to levy £100 per sq m of development.

All other development types would be subject to a zero rate levy under the plans.
The proposed levy has the potential to raise between £20 million and £40 m towards the funding of infrastructure to support local growth over the next 15 years, the Council has estimated.

"We are eager to introduce the Harrow CIL to ensure the many benefits that development can bring are shared across the entire community," said Councillor Keith Ferry, Harrow Council's portfolio holder for planning and economic development.

"Neighbourhoods will reap the rewards from growth and money can be allocated to local areas that require investment the most," he said.