Decision details

Following invitation from Government, to seek agreement for the Council to take part in the Local Authority Housing Fund programme Round 2.  This is with a view to accepting government funding to support the delivery of eight new homes in the district to meet short, medium and long term housing need.

DECISIONS:

1.    That Cabinet formally agrees to take part on the Local Authority Housing Fund Round 2 programme with a view to bringing eight properties in the council’s ownership to meet short, medium and long term housing needs within the district;

2.    That it is recommended to Council that the 2023/24 capital programme is amended to reflect the LAHF project as set out at Appendix A;

3.    To delegate to the Assistant Director – Strategic Growth and Development, in conjunction with the Portfolio Holder for Communities and Operational Housing, the authority to conclude contractual and grant agreement arrangements with Government in respect of the scheme.

RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL:

4.    That the 2023/24 capital programme be amended to reflect the LAHF project.

To accept an offer of up to £880,000 in government funding to support in making eight properties available to meet short, medium and long term housing needs within the district.  To recommend to Council the inclusion of funds in the 2023/24 capital budget to deliver the project, captured within the capital programme set out in Appendix A.  To delegate authority to officers to conclude contractual agreements with government).

Do nothing – Under this option, the council will not accept the funds from government, nor to seek to make properties available.  The purpose of the fund is to support local authorities in meeting the housing needs arising in their area.  Therefore, under the ‘do nothing’ option, the potential benefits referenced within the report would not be realised.