Decision

To approve and issue an Authority to Proceed and Eligibility Approval 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 may proceed with the purchase of the property under the First Homes Scheme.

Reasons for the decision

The applicants have been assessed and confirmed as meeting the eligibility requirements of the First Homes Scheme and the requirements set out within the Section 106 Agreement relating to planning reference BN/142/20/OUT – Century Gardens, Tars Farm, Barnham, West Sussex, PO22 0BD.

The property is being sold as a qualifying First Home with a market value of £462,962 and a discounted purchase price of £250,000, representing a discount of 46%. The purchase price complies with the First Homes requirement that the discounted sale price does not exceed £250,000.

The applicants have been verified as meeting the national eligibility criteria for the scheme, including first-time buyer status and the applicable household income requirements. The applicants have also demonstrated compliance with the relevant local eligibility criteria applicable to the development.

The proposed purchase is supported by a mortgage offer from Halifax, with a deposit contribution of £25,000 and a mortgage advance of £225,000.

This decision is made under delegated authority and enables the applicants to proceed with the purchase, subject to exchange of contracts within the validity period of the Authority to Proceed and compliance with all ongoing First Homes requirements.

Alternative options considered

1. Refuse the Authority to Proceed. This option was rejected as the applicants satisfy the national and local eligibility requirements and the proposed purchase complies with the First Homes Scheme and associated planning obligations.

2. Defer the decision pending further information. This option was rejected as sufficient evidence and supporting documentation were provided to complete the eligibility assessment and determine the application.

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