England · National documents
Viability
Explains viability evidence in plan-making and decision-taking, including assumptions about costs, values and developer returns.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Viability (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 10-001-20251216
Assess the full policy cost, not one requirement alone
The guidance asks that plan requirements be informed by need and a proportionate viability assessment. Relevant policies and national and local standards, including levy and obligation costs, should be considered together rather than assessing a single contribution in isolation.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 10-001-20251216
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.