Vital infrastructure improvements in North Tyneside could be funded by a new charge on developers from early next year.
North Tyneside Council’s Cabinet is set to consider whether to give the green light to the introduction of a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
A CIL is a developer contribution that allows councils to levy a flat rate financial charge for each square metre of floor space on a range of new developments.
The funding can help pay for infrastructure such as highways improvements, schools, flood alleviation schemes, leisure and community facilities.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Bruce Pickard said: “It’s hugely important we have the infrastructure needed for North Tyneside to continue to be a great place to live, work and visit.
“A Community Infrastructure Levy would enable us to levy new developments to fund infrastructure that will support a thriving, prosperous borough.”
Preparation of a CIL is guided by statutory regulations. Following consultation on the proposed charges, an examination in public was held in August.
Evidence was submitted by some of the major landowners and house builders in North Tyneside including Persimmon, Bellway and Taylor Wimpey as well as representation on behalf of Aldi Ltd.
The proposed North Tyneside CIL Charging Schedule incorporates modifications that were recommended by the Examiner.
Subject to the approval of Cabinet at its meeting on November 19 and Full Council on November 22 the CIL would be introduced in North Tyneside from January 14, 2019.
Introduction of the CIL would bring North Tyneside Council into line with Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council which each adopted the CIL in November 2016.