A new levy on developments to help fund much-needed infrastructure in North Somerset came into force last week (Thursday 18 January).

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a new charge which developers will be required to pay to help fund the cost of infrastructure, such as schools and transport improvements.

It is being introduced by North Somerset Council to help tackle the pressures that come from growth across the area.

Development granted planning consent on or after 18 January may be liable to pay the new levy. In North Somerset the CIL applies primarily to retail and residential developments and the rates vary according to the size, location and type of development.

There are exceptions for affordable housing and properties being built for the owner’s own use (for example house extensions) as well as for charitable projects. There is no charge on employment or community buildings.

Local communities will benefit first-hand as town and parish councils will get a share of the CIL income from developments in their area.

Fifteen per cent of the money paid by the developer will go to the town or parish council where the development takes place to spend on local facilities. This increases to 25 per cent if the council has an adopted neighbourhood plan.

The rest will go to North Somerset Council to spend on infrastructure to support development. An annual report will be published setting out how much money is received and how it is spent.

The CIL partially replaces the current system of development contributions known as section 106 agreements.

More information about CIL can be found on the council’s website at: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/cil.