On the basis that the simplest explanation is usually the correct one, it seems likely that the Sainsbury's development has been canned because they couldn't come to an agreement over the affordable housing content. There is no need to imagine that some ancient covenant is responsible. While I had reservations about the way this project seemed to be shaping up - it is a shame that the housing will no longer be delivered. The government seemed to have finally worked out that cheap housing can't be ordained but that you have to boost supply above demand to keep rents and prices down. That should have put a stop to councils hold out for more affordable units - which is a good thing if they were at minimal discount to market rent or shared ownership schemes which are proving to be very problematic for those who end up living in them. I think Sainsbury's/Berkeley thought in the current environment they could get a better deal - looks like they were wrong.

Forum Home