Developer contributions to Wokingham Borough Council almost trebled in the last financial year.

The council says it received £92.3 million during the 2021/22 financial year, compared to £32.6m it received in 2020/21.

The money, built into successful planning applications, supports services like schools, roads and public spaces.

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, executive member for planning and local plan, said: “We stand by our belief that the Government is forcing our communities to take far too many homes, and we’ll continue our lobbying to change this.

“Until then, however, we have to accept the required number or we could lose our planning powers – so we’re doing all we can to make a flawed system work in our favour.

“By having developers build or pay for community infrastructure, we can ensure people have what they need on their doorsteps and aren’t isolated or forced to travel too far for their day-to-day needs.

“We will continue to work closely with developers to ensure they meet their commitments towards improving infrastructure, and new affordable homes to meet our community’s needs when they develop in our area.”

WBC is also lobbying to ensure fewer homes are built in the borough. Those who live or work within its boundaries have been asked to respond to the Government’s proposals to change planning policy which could work in the council’s favour.

The council has asked people to visit www.gov.uk and use the search term ‘reforms to national planning policy’. Responses are required by March 2.

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