Changes proposed for Royal Greenwich infrastructure funding

We’re asking local residents and interested stakeholders for feedback on proposed changes to the borough’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charges.

CIL is a charge collected from developers and landlords who create housing and commercial space in the borough, to make sure the local community benefits from new development. It’s used to pay for important infrastructure and community facilities across Royal Greenwich from roads and transport to schools and doctors’ surgeries.

The Council is proposing to increase CIL charges to reflect changes to land values in Royal Greenwich and take into account the need for additional infrastructure and community facilities to support our growing population.

Cllr Aidan Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “High quality infrastructure is crucial to help and support our residents and businesses in all parts of their daily lives. They deserve good transport links, access to community facilities and beautiful parks and open spaces. CIL has been vital in funding the new Elizabeth line station in Woolwich. It’s also helped to deliver a wealth of small projects across the entire borough: upgrading community centres, sports facilities and parks, playground equipment and so much more.

“We’re keen to support and encourage new development in Royal Greenwich, however it’s important that developers and landlords help contribute to the wider community. The new charges proposed will ensure we can improve essential infrastructure and services, and support thriving, healthy communities.”

The Council will review all the feedback we receive and consider where any changes may need to be made. Following this, the proposed charges, the Council’s supporting evidence and all the feedback received will be submitted to an independent examiner for review.

If the review takes place as a public hearing, local people and interested stakeholders have the right to speak. Anyone who would like to speak needs to provide their full contact details with their feedback. Alternatively, the examiner has the option to ask people to send in comments in writing instead.

If the examiner thinks the proposed CIL charges and our evidence base are sound, the new charges will be formally approved by the Council in 2024.

Read more about the process online and share your feedback at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/cil-consultation

Further information and a paper questionnaire will also be available in the Eltham Centre, Greenwich Centre, Thamesmere and Woolwich Centre libraries.

The consultation closes on Monday 25 September at 5pm.

You can also register at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/cil-consultation to be kept updated about the CIL consultation and other planning policy consultations.