Why Local Councils Should Adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) And Why The Tories Didn’t At Rochford District Council

Speaking with our community, many are not opposed to new housing and growth, but they are opposed to growth without infrastructure. Critically, we share the ‘once bitten, twice shy’ by the Conservatives who reigned over our district for so long and delivered so little infrastructure. You could say it isn’t a case of ‘asleep at the wheel’ but more that they were in a state of comatose!

I think residents want to see a little more than a couple of roundabouts and even the proposed SEN school (which will likely not just serve residents in our district, but those across Essex) doesn’t go far enough to justify the additional pressure on our services. Roads, Healthcare, Education, Leisure and Open spaces – they have ALL been put under the squeeze and we’ve suffered. To get a doctors appointment is a feat in itself, NHS dentists – forget it – parks and playgrounds falling apart… could this all have been avoided?

Is CIL the silver bullet to the problem? Well read on and judge for yourself if CIL could have addressed many of the funding issues of the increased house building in our area.

So are you wondering why local councils should adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)? The CIL is a vital funding tool that allows councils to collect funds from developers to improve local infrastructure. This article explains the key reasons why every local authority should consider adopting CIL, from its sustainable funding benefits to its role in empowering local communities.

1. Sustainable Funding for Local Infrastructure

One of the main reasons local councils should adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is its ability to generate sustainable, long-term funding for vital infrastructure projects. As housing development accelerates across the UK, councils face increased pressure on roads, schools, and health services. By implementing CIL, councils can ensure that developers contribute fairly to the costs of new infrastructure, reducing reliance on public funding.

Unlike traditional Section 106 agreements, which can be slow and complicated, CIL offers a streamlined, efficient way to secure contributions from developers. This makes it an ideal solution for local authorities looking for a dependable way to finance infrastructure improvements.

2. Greater Flexibility for Local Councils

Adopting the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) gives local councils more flexibility in how funds are allocated. With CIL, councils can pool resources and invest in large-scale infrastructure projects, rather than being restricted to small, site-specific developments. This flexibility allows councils to address broader community needs, such as new transport links, schools, or green spaces.

Additionally, councils can set CIL rates that vary by area or development type, allowing for a balanced approach that takes into account local housing demand and the specific needs of communities.

3. Fairer for Developers and Easier for Local Planning

For developers, CIL offers more certainty and transparency than Section 106 agreements. Since CIL is a fixed charge based on the type and size of a development, it removes the unpredictability associated with lengthy negotiations. This not only speeds up the planning process but also provides developers with a clear understanding of their obligations.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is also fairer, as even small developments contribute to local infrastructure costs, ensuring that all developers, regardless of project size, play a role in supporting the community.

4. Empowering Local Communities

One of the unique advantages of adopting the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is that it directly benefits local communities. A portion of the CIL collected—between 15% and 25%—is allocated to local neighbourhoods where development takes place. This funding can be used for community priorities such as park improvements, youth services, or cultural initiatives.

By adopting CIL, councils can foster stronger engagement with residents, giving them a voice in how development contributes to local improvements.

5. Supporting Long-Term Growth

As the population grows, councils need to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with development. The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) offers councils a forward-thinking way to plan for future infrastructure needs, from transportation to healthcare and environmental sustainability.

Adopting CIL ensures that local authorities have the resources to support new developments and maintain a high quality of life for residents, making it a crucial tool for managing long-term growth.

6. Improved Transparency and Accountability

Another reason why local councils should adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is the enhanced transparency it brings. Councils are required to publish annual reports on how much CIL has been collected, how it has been spent, and what future infrastructure projects are planned.

This transparency helps build trust with residents and demonstrates the direct benefits of new developments, improving public perception of local government planning efforts.

7. Funding Green and Sustainable Infrastructure

As councils increasingly focus on sustainability, CIL provides the funding necessary for green infrastructure projects. Local authorities can use CIL revenue to invest in sustainable transport, renewable energy, flood defences, and more, contributing to environmental goals and building climate resilience in communities.

8. So why didn’t the Tories Adopt CIL at Rochford District Council?

There isn’t any clear answer on this so I can make assumptions. Without CIL, this district would have certainly been more profitable for developers to build in the first instance. Did the previous administration just not have the political will to make the decision? Yes the impact isn’t just on large developers and there may be some ‘pushback’ but nothing comes for free right? Whichever way you look at it, I think it cost us dearly.

Conclusion

Adopting the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is essential for any local council looking to secure sustainable infrastructure funding, improve transparency, and empower local communities. The benefits of adopting CIL, from fairer contributions by developers to supporting long-term growth, make it a valuable tool for councils.

By adopting CIL, local councils can ensure they have the necessary resources to create stronger, more resilient communities while managing the challenges of future development. Why local councils should adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is clear—it’s a solution that benefits everyone.

Final thoughts from me on this – I can only put the best estimate on this that the lack of action to adopt CIL has cost us heavily, into the millions of pounds of infrastructure and services. I am determined that we will right this wrong and continue on our programme of investment in our District’s infrastructure and services.

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About the author 

James Newport

Essex County Councillor for Rayleigh North, Rochford District Councillor for Downhall & Rawreth and Rayleigh Town Councillor for Sweyne.

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