Training Programmes

Understanding Viability: key concepts in development economics for planners

In the current economic situation the need to be able to understand a development’s viability has become an important issue for planners. An understanding of viability can have a significant bearing on whether a development goes ahead and, if so, what benefits might accrue to the local community. This workshop is aimed at all local authority planning and development staff who are engaged in policy implementation and development management where the need to judge the viability of plans and projects is now vital. The workshop will be particularly relevant to staff who work with and negotiate with commercial developers to assess contributions under a planning agreement. As a result of taking part in the workshop, participants should be able to understand how developers approach financial appraisal; be able to assess in broad terms the viability of proposals; and appreciate the financial impact of conditions and planning agreements under consideration. The workshop will also review the negotiation positions typically adopted by developers and how to counter them through the planning process.  Use will be made of basic financial models including the layout of Excel spreadsheets and there will be a review of the available software packages.

For further details download a leaflet/booking form                Make a provisional booking on this workshop.

PARTICIPANT COMMENTS:

"Very helpful and hope to use the advice in future negotiations."

Kingsley Drinkwater, Midlothian Council