IN response to recent articles about the new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) I would like the opportunity to explain how it will benefit Poole.

CIL replaces existing Section 106 charges made on planning applications and will raise funds from development to improve Poole’s infrastructure.

CIL reflects the range of property values across Poole and charges different rates for different zones in the borough on each square metre of new residential dwelling internal floor space.

The levy will differ for each application depending on how much new floor space is proposed.

This approach means that in the majority of cases, CIL will work out cheaper than the previous Section 106 arrangements.

In cases where it does not, the levy will still be affordable as CIL is linked to property values.

CIL represents only a small percentage of the total costs of development and therefore should not hold back housing development in Poole.

Taken as a whole, CIL is a fairer system that favours the re-use of land and buildings.

Also, CIL is only charged on new housing development which means there is no other levy to pay on all other types of development.

This will hopefully encourage developers to build new offices, shopping and leisure facilities in Poole, bringing with them new jobs.

We’re committed to working with developers and agents to deliver growth and jobs and will monitor the success of CIL in raising the funds to provide the infrastructure needed to deliver planned growth within Poole.

CLLR MIKE WHITE, cabinet member for planning and regeneration, Borough of Poole