At Derwen May Homes, planning obligations are not treated as a checklist. They are part of how development contributes to place, people and long term community wellbeing. Section 106 agreements exist to ensure that new housing supports infrastructure, services and social outcomes. We recognise their importance and we plan for them early, openly and responsibly.
Our planning statement for Bolgoed Farm, Pontarddulais sets out how the proposed development meets policy requirements and planning obligations in a clear and balanced way. It also reflects our wider approach, which is to look beyond minimum compliance and consider how development can deliver additional value where it is appropriate and meaningful.
Understanding the Role of S106
Section 106 obligations are designed to make development acceptable in planning terms. They help secure contributions towards affordable housing, education, open space, transport and other local infrastructure. These obligations sit alongside design quality, environmental protection and placemaking principles.
From the outset, we work closely with planning officers to understand what contributions are required and how they relate to the specific context of the site. At Pontarddulais, this includes affordable housing provision, open space, education contributions and infrastructure support in line with Swansea’s Local Development Plan and national policy.
By addressing these matters early, we ensure that obligations are proportionate, viable and aligned with the needs of the local community.
Balancing Policy Compliance and Viability
Our planning statement demonstrates that the proposed development of 95 homes is policy compliant in principle and capable of delivering required planning obligations. The site lies within the settlement boundary of Pontarddulais and is partly allocated for housing. It is well connected to services, education and transport, making it a sustainable location for growth.
The development provides a mix of market and affordable homes based on local need. It includes generous public open space, green infrastructure, sustainable drainage and active travel connections. These elements are not treated as add-ons. They are integrated into the layout and design from the start.
This integrated approach supports the delivery of S106 obligations while maintaining quality and coherence across the scheme.
Where we differ is in how we view the role of planning obligations. We do not see S106 as the limit of our responsibility. We see it as a baseline from which to build further benefit.
At Pontarddulais, the scheme delivers open space provision that exceeds Fields in Trust guidance in several categories. Natural and semi natural green space, amenity green space and informal play areas are provided in generous amounts and woven throughout the site. These spaces support recreation, biodiversity and everyday wellbeing.
The green infrastructure strategy goes beyond mitigation. It delivers net biodiversity benefit through retained hedgerows, new planting, wildlife corridors and a landscaped pond that also forms part of the sustainable drainage system. These features provide ecological value and amenity for residents and the wider community.
We also invest in placemaking through street design, shared surfaces, pedestrian priority and active frontages. These design decisions are not secured through S106 alone. They reflect our commitment to creating places that function well and feel cared for.
Affordable Housing as a Core Commitment
Affordable housing is a key part of S106 obligations and a key part of our approach. The proposed mix at Pontarddulais meets policy requirements and responds to identified local need.
The affordable homes are designed to the same standard as market homes, with equal access to open space, energy efficiency and quality materials.
We believe that affordable housing should be fully integrated into developments and contribute positively to the character of a place. This approach supports balanced communities and long term social sustainability.
A Long Term View of Contribution
Planning obligations are only one part of the contribution a development makes. Long term value also comes from how places are built, managed and lived in. Our approach considers future maintenance, stewardship and community use.
By designing high quality public spaces, energy efficient homes and resilient infrastructure, we reduce future pressure on services and support better outcomes over time. This is a form of contribution that extends beyond the legal agreement.
“Section 106 obligations matter because they help connect development to community need. At Derwen May, we treat them as a foundation rather than a ceiling. Our aim is to deliver schemes that meet policy requirements and then add further value through quality, care and long term thinking.” Huw Llewellyn, Managing Director, Derwen May Homes
Delivering with Integrity
Our planning statement sets out a clear case for development that is sustainable, policy aligned and capable of delivering appropriate obligations. It also reflects our wider ethos, which is to build responsibly and contribute positively wherever we work.
At Pontarddulais, this means a scheme that delivers housing, supports infrastructure, enhances green space and strengthens the character of the area. It also means a development that looks beyond the minimum and considers how additional benefit can be created through thoughtful design and partnership.
This is how we balance planning policy and S106 requirements at Derwen May Homes. With clarity, care and a commitment to delivering more than is asked.
Contact us to learn more.