BLOG: Community Infrastructure Levy - Understanding the positives and the pitfalls

In Three Rivers, we are pleased to be able to grant funds to important strategic infrastructure projects thanks to a financial charge which is placed on new developments in our district. The charge is called the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), and over recent years it has helped support and deliver projects as diverse as sports facilities and play areas to infrastructure including electric vehicle charging points, Grand Union Canal Towpath upgrade, and local leisure projects. It is an important tool for local authorities to use to help them deliver the infrastructure needed to support development in their area.

So, what are the negatives? Well, there are no real negatives – as long as you follow the CIL Regulations as adopted by TRDC. There is, however, something that you should be aware of if you are involved in a building project on your own home which, if it involves significant demolition, could mean that you become liable to pay a significant amount of money by way of a CIL contribution.

Most new development which creates net additional floor space of 100 square metres or more, or creates a new dwelling or annex of any size, is potentially liable for the levy.

So, if the works as described in your planning permission alter during the build, you must contact the Council/LA planning department BEFORE any amendments of that permission is carried out. Failure to inform and discuss with the local authority could result in the requirement for a retrospective application, which may have serious implications for the amount of CIL you are required to pay (a CIL relief claim). Retrospective works do not allow the benefit of relief from the levy resulting in a CIL charge,  which could amount to thousands of pounds. This is non-negotiable.

Are there exemptions?

Under the rules, some developments may be eligible for relief or exemption from the levy. This includes residential annexes and extensions, and houses and flats which are built by ‘self-builders’. Within the regulations, there are strict criteria that must be met, and procedures that must be followed to obtain the relief or exemption. More detail can be found from the following link: Community Infrastructure Levy - GOV.UK

A request for relief must be obtained as soon as possible after permission has been granted and BEFORE commencement of the development. Failure to complete all required forms and await receipt of  acknowledgement before the start of works could result in loss of relief from the levy.

More detailed information regarding CIL and the required forms can be found on our website:

Community Infrastructure Levy | Three Rivers District Council

You can also contact the CIL team on:

01923 776611

CIL - Three Rivers: cil@threerivers.gov.uk

If you are in any doubt whether your development requires an amendment to the approved planning permission, please contact Development Management immediately:

01923 776611

Or: enquireplan@threerivers.gov.uk

Apply Now: The current window for CIL funding is open.

Applications for bids can be submitted twice yearly:

1 June - 13 July

1 January - 12 February

Find out more here.