A document setting out detail about how much and what type and size of affordable housing will be provided in the Wokingham borough is set to be considered by the council next week (Thursday June 2, 2011).

At a special meeting, the council’s decision-making executive will be asked to formally adopt The Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).

Cllr Angus Ross, executive member for strategic highways and planning, said: "We need to meet the needs of our residents now and into the future. This means ensuring a range of high quality homes that people can afford.

"Whilst our Core Strategy has set the overarching policy, this document provides detailed guidance about the affordable housing we expect to be provided on new developments."

The Core Strategy was adopted in January 2010 and sets out a high level vision on how the Wokingham borough will develop up to 2026 and how the council aims to protect and enhance the good quality of life enjoyed in the borough.

It details the circumstances of when and where the council will ask for affordable housing within development, The Affordable Housing SPD gives greater detail about requirements in respect of amount, type and size of affordable housing to be provided.

The document will also provide more certainty to developers about the requirements for affordable housing as part of both residential and employment developments.

Cllr Ross said: "This document will help us achieve a range of different affordable housing as well as a larger supply around the borough. Anyone with children or grandchildren will know it is difficult to get that first step on the ladder, whether it be renting or buying. Equally, we need to make sure we are providing homes for the workforce that keeps our economy going. This document is key to the continuing success of the borough."