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Community-based projects have never been more important than now, with more and more homes being built every day in Suffolk.

The Community Infrastructure Levy allows Suffolk Parish Councils (you) to help develop spaces for your local community.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a planning charge introduced by the UK government through the Planning Act 2008 and governed by the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended). It allows local authorities to raise funds from developers who are undertaking new building projects in their area. The primary purpose of CIL is to support the financing of infrastructure needed to support new development, ensuring that growth does not adversely impact existing communities.

Local authorities set CIL rates based on their Infrastructure Delivery Plan and viability studies. These rates vary depending on the type and location of the development and are published in a document called the CIL Charging Schedule. Once planning permission is granted, the local authority issues a CIL Liability Notice detailing the amount payable by the developer, who must then pay according to the provided payment schedule.

A portion of the CIL funds collected by the local authority is distributed to parish councils where the development takes place. Typically, parish councils receive 15% of the CIL funds, which increases to 25% if the parish has an adopted Neighbourhood Plan. These funds are intended to be used for local infrastructure projects that support the development of the area, such as improving roads, enhancing community facilities, upgrading parks, and supporting local schools and health services.

Parish councils play a critical role in managing and utilising CIL funds. They are responsible for engaging with their communities to identify priority projects, ensuring transparency by publishing annual reports on CIL income and expenditure, and maintaining accurate records. Effective use of CIL funds can significantly enhance local infrastructure, improve community amenities, and address the demands that new developments place on the area.

• Local authorities set CIL rates based on the needs identified in their Infrastructure Delivery Plan and viability studies. Rates vary depending on the type and location of the development.
  
  
• The rates are published in a document called the CIL Charging Schedule.

• When planning permission is granted for a new development, the local authority issues a CIL Liability Notice detailing how much is payable.
  
  
• Developers must pay the CIL charge according to the payment schedule provided by the local authority.

• The local authority collects CIL payments and distributes a portion to parish councils. Typically, 15% of the CIL collected is passed to the parish council where the development takes place. This increases to 25% if the parish has an adopted Neighbourhood Plan.

• Create a clear plan outlining how CIL funds will be prioritised and spent. This should be aligned with the parish’s broader community development plans and goals.

• Work closely with the local planning authority to understand upcoming developments and potential CIL revenue.

• Regularly consult with residents and local organisations to identify pressing needs and gain support for projects

• Keep accurate records of all CIL income and expenditure. Ensure that all spending is well-documented and aligns with CIL regulations.

• Periodically review the impact of CIL-funded projects and adjust plans as needed to respond to changing community needs.