Decision

To approve and issue an Authority to Exchange and Compliance Certificate under the First Homes Scheme in respect of xxx, Barnham, West Sussex, PO22 xxx to Mr xxx and Mrs xxx, confirming that the applicants satisfy the relevant national and local eligibility criteria and authorising the exchange of contracts on or before 18 November 2026.

Reasons for the decision

The applicants have previously been approved under the First Homes Scheme and have now completed the requirements necessary for the issue of an Authority to Exchange and Compliance Certificate. Arun District Council has received the required Solicitor's Undertaking and supporting documentation in respect of the proposed purchase.

The application has been assessed against the requirements contained within the Section 106 Agreement relating to planning reference BN/142/20/OUT – Century Gardens, Tars Farm, Barnham, West Sussex, PO22 0BD, dated 3 December 2021. The applicants have been confirmed as meeting the national First Homes eligibility criteria and the applicable local eligibility criteria adopted by Arun District Council.

The property has a market value of £462,962 and is being sold at a discounted First Homes purchase price of £250,000, representing a 46% discount. The proposed sale complies with the requirements of the First Homes Scheme and the relevant planning obligations.

The applicants have provided the necessary declarations and confirmations of eligibility and have agreed to comply with the planning obligations and covenant requirements applicable to First Homes properties.

This decision is made under delegated authority and permits exchange of contracts on or before 18 November 2026, subject to continued compliance with the First Homes Scheme requirements and the conditions of the Solicitor's Undertaking.

Alternative options considered

1. Refuse the Authority to Exchange and Compliance Certificate. This option was rejected as the applicants have satisfied the national and local eligibility requirements and the proposed transaction complies with the First Homes Scheme and associated planning obligations.

2. Defer the decision pending additional information. This option was rejected as all required eligibility checks, declarations and conveyancing documentation had been provided and assessed.

3. Require amendments to the proposed transaction. This option was rejected as the purchase price, discount level and contractual arrangements comply with the requirements of the First Homes Scheme and the Section 106 Agreement.