COUNCILS have been urged to get more money out of developers.

The Government wants them to make better use of Section 106' agreements to offset the downside of large developments.

The agreements are legally binding deals that see developers pay money towards the cost of improving the area they are building in.

Funding usually goes towards projects like roadworks, health centres and sports facilities.

Yvette Cooper, planning minister, said: "We all know that land values can rise dramatically once planning permission has been given.

"Yet, in the majority of cases, developers pay nothing towards infrastructure and affordable housing. That is why we are looking at new ways to raise more from planning gain."