Issue - meetings

Councillor Harlow, the Portfolio Holder for Housing, presented the recommendations of the Executive for the adoption of the Housing Strategy 2021 to 2026.  The Housing Strategy was welcomed by the Council as a very positive piece of work.

RESOLVED

That (i)    the Housing Strategy 2021-2026, as attached to the report, be approved; and

          (ii)   the Director of Housing, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Housing, be delegated authority to make minor amendments to the Strategy and to update the action plan as required.

Reporting Person – Louise Strongitharm

Councillor Harlow, the Portfolio Holder for Housing, introduced the report which sought approval of the Executive to recommend to Council the adoption of the Housing Strategy 2021-2026.  Following the good response to the consultation, the Executive noted that Officers were pulling together a full consultation report with the intention of publishing it on the Council’s website and providing a copy at the next Housing Task Group.  Following a question, it was noted that some Thameswey properties outside of the Borough were used in the Council’s Let’s Rent Scheme.  Regarding shared ownership schemes, Officers advised that the main barrier was the number of new homes built as such schemes were usually delivered through new development.  The low number of homes delivered by Thameswey was highlighted, however the Portfolio Holder commented that there had been a low number of new builds generally.

Downsizing was discussed and it was noted that the aspiration was to consult people currently under occupying and to understand what incentives would encourage them to downsize.

Members welcomed the Housing Strategy and congratulated Officers on their hard work.

REcommended to Council

That  (i)    the Housing Strategy 2021-2026, as attached to the report, be approved; and

          (ii)   the Director of Housing, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Housing, be delegated authority to make minor amendments to the Strategy and to update the action plan as required.

Reason:   The Council has a legal duty to have an up-to-date Housing Strategy in place.