5 top tips for unlocking funding through the Town Planning system

As mentioned in my last blog, ‘Funding Opportunities in Town Planning: are you missing out?’, there’s a lot of potential for leveraging funding from developer contributions. But our latest research has shown that a lack of expertise and confidence prevents many NHS organisations from making the most of it.

If you don’t know how to access Section 106 (S106) or Community Infrastructure Levy charge (CIL), are struggling with writing compelling business cases or are confused by timings, read my top tips to help you succeed in securing S106 and CIL funding.

1. Know what developer contributions are available in your area.

You can find the scale and type of funding available in your area by accessing the Council’s Annual Infrastructure Funding Statement through your local planning authority’s website. All local planning authorities use S106, while CIL is not used in all areas. 

2. Understand the decision-making process and the stakeholders involved.

S106: To secure S106 funding, you need to engage with the local authority, committee and developer, and submit a formal consultation response. The local planning authority will often make the final decision.

As the largest dedicated Town Planning team in the NHS, we’ve dealt with over 400 successful planning projects. From my experience, it’s so important to have good communication and negotiation skills when working with developers, local councils and political stakeholders.

CIL: The process works differently with CIL funding. You’ll need to complete an application form and build a strong supporting case to present to local planning committees. The final decision is made by the council’s decision-making committee. The process may vary depending on the council, potentially involving different levels of political engagement.

3. Build a compelling business case

Time and time again, I’ve seen the important role that data storytelling plays when applying for this funding – in demonstrating what this project means for your area and the potential impact. You must present data in a robustly clear way to support and explain your business case.

4. Be aware of deadlines for your funding requests.

S106: You need to make a request for this funding before the planning permission is granted and within the public consultation period. If you miss this window, it’s unlikely that you’ll get another opportunity to request this funding. 

CIL: Allocations for these funds are typically decided every financial year. The deadline to apply for this funding is different for every local authority. I’d suggest keeping a close eye on your local planning authority’s website and remaining in touch with key stakeholders.

5. Have a long-term and short-term plan for using developer contribution funds.

Make sure you have a clear plan for prioritising projects based on the availability of developer contributions both now and in the future. This will help you make the most of S106 and CIL available today while setting up processes to secure the right funding for longer-term projects.

When thinking of your longer-term projects, you should consider that it’s easier to secure CIL funding on projects where other NHS investment is also taking place. Councils often use a ‘match-funding’ principle to prioritise projects that have more overall funding support.