As national housing targets shift, Stratford-upon-Avon’s Town Council has been advised to take a tougher stance on securing infrastructure funding from developers.
The message was clear at this month’s Warwickshire and West Midlands Association of Local Councils meeting: massive changes to housing and infrastructure are coming, and local towns need to be ready to fight for their corner.
In a report presented to the Town Council by Cllr Gill Cleeve following the November 12th meeting, leaders were warned of the “scale of upcoming housing and infrastructure changes” sweeping across England. However, the focus wasn’t just on concrete and bricks – it was on the money required to support them.
The fight for the infrastructure levy
When large housing developments are built, developers are typically required to pay a tax known as a levy. Historically, much of this money is absorbed by larger district or county authorities.
Now, the National Association of Local Councils is lobbying for a major change. They are demanding a “fair allocation of the new infrastructure levy” specifically for town and parish councils.
If this lobbying is successful, a guaranteed portion of the cash generated by new housing estates in Stratford would come directly to the Town Council. This means the money could be spent immediately on local priorities – like maintaining parks, fixing local amenities, or improving town centre safety – rather than disappearing into a regional pot.
Retaining “genuine influence”
Beyond the financials, the report highlighted a critical battle for control. Jonathan Owen, NALC Chief Executive, highlighted that town councils must protect their right to “genuine influence” over where houses go.
With the introduction of the new Planning and Infrastructure Bill in March 2025, there is a renewed urgency to strengthen Neighbourhood Planning.
The strategy isn’t to simply block construction, but to “engage early.” The report advises Stratford’s representatives to sit down with developers and principal authorities long before the first brick is laid. This proactive approach allows the town to shape “place-making” and ensure environmental protections are baked into the plans, rather than trying to fix them after approval.
Strength in numbers
While Stratford may feel like just one town, the report reminded councillors that they are part of a massive bloc. Town and Parish councils collectively represent 35 million people across 92% of England.
By aligning with the national lobby, Stratford-upon-Avon is hoping to ensure that as the town grows, the infrastructure – and the funding to maintain it – grows with it.
