The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a charge that councils can enforce for new developments of 100m2 or more. Self-builders are generally exempt, providing they submit the correct paperwork at the correct time. Failure to do so can result in fines, as the Heighways discovered. “The local CIL officer claimed that work had begun on site before we’d notified them, and they tried to fine us £12,000,” Raymond explains. To stop this, Amy had to prove to the council that the removal of the existing bungalow was under a separate demolition planning application. She provided photographic evidence of the original bungalow, and of the site to date, highlighting that no construction works had begun. “The CIL officer said there was some confusion because we’d submitted two separate planning applications, one to…
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Homebuilding & Renovating (Digital) - 1 Issue, March 2022