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Community Infrastructure Levy: Homeowners

29 April 2026

Lead MP

Jeremy Hunt
Godalming and Ash
Con

Responding Minister

Matthew Pennycook

Tags

Standards & Ethics
Word Count: 8979
Other Contributors: 7

At a Glance

Jeremy Hunt raised concerns about community infrastructure levy: homeowners in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

I urge the Government to reform CIL legislation to distinguish between commercial developers and householders, provide clear guidance for local councils not to charge homeowners, establish a mechanism for redress and correct mistakes after liability notices, and specify that interest from unspent CIL should go back into the CIL account.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Godalming and Ash
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the profound life-changing consequences for ordinary families across the country due to the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). There are now more than 100 known cases of homeowners facing unexpected CIL charges, ranging from £26,000 to £235,000. £235,000. Some councils, like Waverley in my constituency, have charged over £550 per square metre, one of the highest rates in the country. Families are being forced to sell or remortgage their homes and face immense financial burdens alongside stress and uncertainty.

Government Response

Matthew Pennycook
Government Response
The Government recognise concerns about CIL liabilities applying to householder and self-build developments. The current balance between transparency, certainty, and consistency has not always been achieved in practice. Therefore, the Government intend to consult on proposals to amend the CIL regulations to improve the process for obtaining exemptions. These proposals aim to minimise procedural errors and prevent significant unexpected charges for homeowners and self-builders while ensuring local planning authorities can properly administer CIL. The consultation will be published before the summer recess.
Assessment & feedback
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.