Developers and landowners in Exeter are being urged to get involved in discussions on a new levy which could affect the future viability of major schemes in the city.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) will allow local authorities to raise money from developers who are undertaking new schemes in their area in order to fund projects such as new roads, schools and hospitals.

The first of two rounds of consultation being undertaken by Exeter City Council, which will set out proposed charging rates for each type of development, closes tomorrow.

Catherine Caudwell, a consultant in the planning team at Jones Lang LaSalle in Exeter, said developers and landowners must make their voices heard – or risk putting major projects in jeopardy in years to come.

"The idea behind the CIL is that the money raised from new development in a defined charging zone can be used to fund infrastructure that the local authority, local community and neighbourhoods are seeking to deliver," she said.

"This will undoubtedly change the face of development in the area. The CIL could have a significant impact on the viability of land and development proposals and on the future growth of Exeter and its environs. The provision of much needed infrastructure through the levy will of course be of great benefit, but at the same time it may threaten the viability of some large-scale projects."

She said that while financial relief from the CIL was available, this was at the local authority's discretion.

"It is therefore prudent for both developers and landowners to actively participate in the development of this document, by making representations to councils to help improve the viability of their land holdings when planning permission is secured."

For more information visit www.exeter.gov.uk.