Issue - decisions

Matter for Decision

The report provided an update on the housing development programme.

Decision of Executive Councillor for Housing

      i.         Noted the continued progress on the delivery of the approved housing programme.

Reason for the Decision

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations

The Committee received a report from the Head of the Housing Development Agency.

The Head of the Housing Development Agency said the following in response to Members’ questions:

        i.       The housing development programme was a 10-year programme to deliver 1000 homes. The Council had been fortunate to secure £70 million of funding from the Combined Authority for the previous ‘500 council homes’ programme. Would report back on further discussions she had with Homes England regarding further funding bids.

      ii.        A planning application for housing development had been granted at Fen Road. This was one of the schemes Homes England grant funding had been sought for. If successful, the council hoped to be begin the development in the summer. An assessment of the need for accessible homes had been undertaken, larger accessible homes were required. Accessible homes have generally be provided as 1-2 bed properties.

    iii.        The Executive Councillor had met with the organisation ‘It Takes a City’ to discuss the provision of more modular homes. It was hoped that more modular homes could be provided once appropriate land had been identified.

    iv.       Properties built through the council’s housing development programme were built to M42 standard which meant that they could be adapted in the future. Accessible properties tended to be 10metres larger and therefore cost more to build. Discussions about suitable locations for modular homes took place with Ward Councillors. Welcomed a visit with councillors around the new developments. 

      v.       New housing development sites were assessed through the planning process in accordance with the Housing Sustainable Design Guide. This included an assessment regarding the use of water.

The Committee unanimously resolved to endorse the recommendation.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendation.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted)

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor.