<b><b>Housebuilders are accepting onerous affordable housing requirements to avoid planning delays. But David Parker of consultant Pioneer Property Services argues that this is building up problems for the future, and it is time developers knew the rules and resisted unreasonable demands</b></b><br><b> Local authorities are forcing developers to be the new providers and funders of affordable housing. And in order to smooth the planning process developers are accepting these onerous terms. But by doing so developers could be threatening the viability of many schemes, including those important urban regeneration projects so beloved by all.</b><br><b> Housebuilders need to resist these moves by ensuring they understand the relevant planning guidance and standing up to the local authorities that are applying conditions that exceed the existing requirements. </b><br><b><b>Role play? </b></b><br> The provision of affordable housing is a major challenge facing housebuilders who are being pushed into an unfamiliar role. In this respect they should examine the direction of current policy and ask themselves if it is a role they want to accept. <p></p><p>To put this in context, it cannot be denied that there is an enormous unmet need for affordable housing when even salaried professionals such as teachers, nurses and the police find it …