From a regulatory perspective, the development is noteworthy for its nuanced approach to planning obligations, negotiated under the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 45 (Town and Country Planning Act 1990). Under CIL, the project makes significant contributions to borough-wide infrastructure improvements, funding public realm enhancements, sustainable transport links, and local amenities. What sets The Orchard apart is how these obligations are integrated into the scheme’s design; for example, the widened pavements, integrated cycle facilities, and landscaped forecourt are directly funded through CIL commitments, turning statutory obligations into tangible public benefits.

Section 45 obligations, typically centered on planning enforcement and compliance with specified conditions, here took on a proactive role. They secured commitments for affordable workspace provision within the building, ensuring that the scheme supports local enterprise rather than displacing it. Additionally, obligations were structured to phase contributions alongside development milestones, allowing the project to align cash flow with construction progress while still delivering timely community benefits.