Policy LNH2 sets the level of affordable housing to be provided in housing developments according to localised areas within the district. In the Rural Areas the policy requires 40% of the development to comprise affordable housing on schemes of 5 dwellings or more; or financial contributions on a sliding scale up to the equivalent of providing 40% affordable housing in lieu of on-site provision on all residential schemes of less than 5 dwellings.

The policy states that where it can be demonstrated that these requirements would either render otherwise suitable development unviable, or where the local need for affordable housing would no longer justify the above levels, the proportion of affordable housing will be expected to be the most that does not undermine viability, or is needed locally.

The continuation of the 40% requirement as set out in the 2006 Rother Affordable Housing SPD is welcomed and considered to be the most suitable delivery mechanism of affordable housing within the district.

The recognition of market conditions and the impact of affordable housing provision on financial viability for housing development is particularly welcomed and the introduction of an appropriate exception clause is considered vital to ensuring the continue delivery of housing development over the plan period. This policy is therefore considered to be both justified and efficient.