Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the meetings of the Group held on 26 July 2023 and 4 October 2023.

Reporting Person: Councillor Tahir Aziz

The Committee received the update report of the Housing Task Group, written and introduced by Louise Strongitharm, Strategic Director for Communities.  The report outlined the topics discussed by the Task Group at its meetings on 26 July and 4 October 2023.

It was noted that there had been a fire at a property in Ash Road and the Committee asked what lessons had been learnt from the incident.  Members were advised that the fire had been able to spread as a result of residents overloading the balconies.  The Council had now drafted a balcony policy that would provide clear directions on what could be stored on the balconies. 

The residents affected by the fire, consisting of six families, had initially been housed in emergency accommodation.  Efforts to identify more suitable accommodation were now being undertaken, with the repairs likely to take a year to complete.  Approximately half of the families were still being accommodated in hotels. 

It was noted that approximately 200 residents were currently in temporary accommodation, with a broad spectrum of accommodation types.  The number of homeless individuals was low, typically up to three each day.

It was agreed that a copy of the draft balcony policy would be shared with Councillors after the meeting, noting the questions around what residents would be able to place on their balconies, such as racks to dry clothes.

RESOLVED

That the report be noted.