Policy Statement: A Roadmap for Section 106 Delivery in England; what it means for delivery partners
The government has published a new roadmap for Section 106, setting out a package of measures intended to make the Section 106 system faster, clearer and more reliable, in particular in relation to the delivery of affordable housing and associated infrastructure. The statement signals a renewed focus on reducing avoidable delay and uncertainty in negotiating and implementing S106 agreements, while strengthening the conditions for consistent delivery on the ground.
Key points:
The key feature of the roadmap is simplification and earlier engagement. The government highlights the value of progressing key S106 matters at pre-application stage, alongside greater use of standardised approaches and clauses, to reduce negotiation friction and improve predictability for applicants, local planning authorities (LPAs) and registered providers.
The statement also points to the need to strengthen local plan clarity on expectations for developer contributions. By improving how requirements are set out locally, the roadmap aims to support LPAs to negotiate more efficiently and to provide developers and delivery partners with greater certainty about likely obligations and timescales.
A notable operational focus is the issue of unsold or uncontracted S106 affordable homes. The roadmap references the Homes England Clearing Service, intended to help connect buyers and sellers of S106 homes and address blockages that can leave units stalled despite planning consent.
Why this matters now?
For councils, developers and affordable housing providers, the roadmap is a clear signal that government expects a more transparent, resilient and a delivery-focused S106 process. If implemented effectively, the direction of travel should support quicker agreement of obligations, fewer stalled affordable units and improved coordination between planning, housing and infrastructure delivery. This should all contribute to helping S106 play a stronger role in meeting England’s housing objectives.
Link to article – Policy statement: a roadmap for Section 106 delivery in England – GOV.UK
