Issue - meetings

(Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Kerr)

In accordance with Section 100B(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the Chairman agreed to consider the report as an item of urgent business to inform the 2009/10 Capital Programme at an early stage.

The Corporate Director (Regeneration) submitted a report seeking approval for the allocation of the Regional Housing Pot (RHP) funding between the West End Master Plan, Poulton Renewal Area and Disabled Facilities Grants.

The options, options analysis, including risk assessment and officer preferred option, were set out in the report as follows:

The Private Sector Housing Capital Programme is a key delivery agent for the Council’s Housing Strategy.  This in turn reflects the Council’s strategic priorities set out in the LDF and Sustainable Community Strategy, both of which are consistent with regional priorities.  It is of increasing importance that implementation and funding reflects and is consistent with strategy.  This in turn will increase the chances of attracting external funding and development partners in the future.  Furthermore, high level risk considerations have already been reflected in the development such strategy.

This essentially limits the options available to those shown below.  In essence, these centre around whether remaining funds should be used to help fund West End priorities, or to provide a greater level of resources towards Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs).

Members should note that DFGs are mandatory and are made available to all qualifying residents throughout the district.  They provide facilities for access to dwellings, whilst making them safe, and also include the provision of suitable kitchen, bathroom and bedroom facilities.  Demand always outstrips supply and the Council is called upon to manage the budget accordingly.

Assuming allocations in the next two years are similar to this year’s, the following funding proposals are to be considered:

Option 1

Option 2

The Officer preferred option is Option 2.  This is consistent with the Council’s strategies and priorities and provides a rational way for determining priorities for investment.  It also reflects the June Cabinet decision.  It continues to support the West End Master Plan, Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) and the successful completion of the Poulton Renewal Area.

It was moved by Councillor Kerr and seconded by Councillor Archer:-

“That the recommendations, as set out in the report, be approved.”  ...  view the full minutes text for item 30

To consider any such items authorised by the Leader and to consider where in the agenda the item(s) are to be considered. 

The Chairman advised that there was one item of urgent business regarding the Private Sector Housing Capital Programme 2009/10 (Minute 30 refers).