THE government is seeking views on exempting small housing schemes from section 106 affordable housing requirements.

The Department for Communities and Local Government is canvassing opinion on proposals to introduce a 10 unit threshold for section 106 affordable housing contributions.

It is seeking views on the idea as part of the government's "Planning Performance and Planning Contributions" consultation.

Andy Dean, spokesman on housing issues for the Rural Services Network, said: "From a rural perspective, this is a hugely significant issue.

The clear exemption proposed as part of the consultation for rural exception sites was to be welcomed, explained Mr Dean.

But if the proposed threshold was implemented this would significantly impact on the delivery of much needed affordable homes in rural communities.

"Rural affordable homes are difficult to deliver and it is critical that existing routes to deliver such homes are not cut off.

"A large proportion of the delivery of affordable housing in communities of less than 3,000 population is through section 106 sites that are 10 units or less.

"Removing this potential delivery, therefore, would have a potentially massive impact on delivery."

As the availability of public resources had reduced, the section 106 route had become an increasingly important mechanism to lever in funding to ensure delivery still took place.

Introducing the threshold wouldf reduce the provision of affordable homes in rural areas.

The Rural Services Network is working with the Rural Housing Alliance to compile information from rural housing associations and others as it devises a formal response to the consultation.

"We urge you to respond directly," said Mr Dean. "But if there is any evidence of the impact this change is likely to have in your area, I would be pleased to hear from you."

The consultation closes on 4 May 2014. It can be accessed here. Mr Dean can be contacted at deanaj@sky.com.