We recently had the following query raised about whether the plan can be amended at this stage and implications of affordable self-builds

…if I resubmitted my planning as an “affordable house” the system in place for an affordable would allow someone else that is in the waiting list into that home…therefore pushing myself (a local) out. At least that is what I have been told.

I like a lot of the policies in this plan, but could it be amended so that there can be exceptions for locals with a connection to the village that want to self build small dwellings? Mine was a single 2 bed bungalow, hardly detrimental to the area.

This may only apply to a few families in Calstock, however it would enable me to stay in the village, keeping our heritage (mine with salmon fishing, I’m hoping at some point it may return)

Because of Neighbourhood Regulations, the plan cannot be amended at this stage.  If the plan is adopted it can be revised, amended and updated in light of changed circumstances.  It is not appropriate for us to comment on specific proposals at this stage.

It is worth noting, however, that pending a review, people in your position might consider the rural exception affordable self-build route that Cornwall Local Plan allows for.  The  Affordable housing Supplementary Planning Document gives more guidance on this https://indd.adobe.com/view/d6991b3d-474f-4b3a-953a-77b4d812c222

From this Cornwall Council document it is clear that a self-builder would not be forced to allow someone else that is on the ‘waiting list’ into the new dwelling thus pushing themself (a local) out.

The self-builder would need to accept that future disposal would be restricted to local people in need of affordable housing.

Anyone considering such circumstances are advised to speak to the Affordable Housing team within Cornwall Council. https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/housing/affordable-housing/