Designed to be tenure blind and distributed throughout the wider development; and

Occupied by eligible tenants, having regard to local household income levels and local rent levels, housing need and links to the local area as agreed between the council and operator.

Build to rent schemes are purpose built dwellings for rent and are defined as such in the National Planning Policy Framework. Nationally, the build to rent sector has grown significantly over recent years. Stockport has received an increase in the number of planning applications for these types of developments.

Build to rent schemes can be beneficial in accelerating the delivery of new homes as well as increasing the range of housing choice in the borough. It is acknowledged that build to rent schemes normally comprise apartments. Despite this, it is important that a mix of unit sizes are provided which reflect the council's most recent assessment of housing needs.

Further to this, build to rent schemes will also be expected to provide appropriate levels of affordable housing. This affordable housing will be provided in the form of affordable rent, with discounts calculated using local incomes. The council will prepare guidance providing more detail in respect of these matters.

Housing provision for older people and specialist accommodation will be supported where it is well-integrated into the wider neighbourhood.

A mix of housing provision specifically targeted at older people, which forms part of the overall mix within new residential developments, should be delivered accordance with HOM 4.

In addition, the range of specialist accommodation, often targeted at older people will be supported where it:

is reflective of the findings outlined within the most up-to-date housing needs assessment;

delivers homes that meet the optional standard in Building Regulations M4(3) wheelchair user dwellings, also having regard to the requirements of policy ENV 15;