Issue - decisions

This item was chaired by Councillor Thittala Varkey (Chair).

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.

     ii.          Noted the inclusion into the new build delivery programme of housing to serve the needs of Afghan and Ukrainian Refugees, part funded through DLUHC, as per the out of cycle decision approved by the executive council in February 2023.

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 Housing Development Agency.

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

i. In response to a query regarding the Mill Road development noted that there was a 12-month defect rectification period and the properties would also benefit from a 12 year NHBC guarantee.

ii.In response to a query about the St Thomas Road scheme advised that the responses from the consultation were being reviewed and discussions were taking place with Planning Officers about Open Space requirements and how this land could be adapted and still delivered as a net zero carbon scheme.

The Committee unanimously resolved to endorse the recommendations.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendations.

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

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor.

The Committee asked to record their thanks and best wishes to Claire Flowers, Head of Housing Development Agency and James McWilliams, Housing Services Manager (Housing Advice) who were leaving the authority and taking on new positions elsewhere.