Issue - meetings

That the Committee supports the overall approach and progress for the delivery of new Council and affordable homes through the Strategic Housing and Regeneration Project (SHARP).

The Housing Strategy Officer introduced an update report on progress of the Strategic Housing and Regeneration Project (SHARP) to deliver 500 new Council and affordable homes over the five year period with the partner developer, Wates Residential.

Councillor Derek Butler asked that the Committee’s good wishes be extended to the Service Manager (Housing Programmes) who was unable to attend.

The officer provided explanation on the phased approach to the programme, providing an update on the new housing schemes due for completion in Connah’s Quay and Flint, as well as progress with the emerging schemes.  As a further update, the scheme at Ysgol Delyn in Mold had been recently been given planning approval.  With regard to funding, the Council’s indicative allocation of Housing Finance Grant 2 (HFG2) was set out in the report, noting that more could be secured, depending on the take-up by other Authorities.

The Chief Officer spoke about the Council’s proactive approach to meet the new homes target and that any additional HFG2 funding could help towards exceeding that target.

In welcoming the report, Councillor Derek Butler highlighted the positive relationship with the development partner to deliver on the Council’s aims.  He referred to the successful ‘Meet the Buyer’ event and the generation of employment and apprenticeship opportunities.

Councillor Rosetta Dolphin praised the positive outcomes for local people and asked about the allocation approach to the new build homes.  The Chief Officer said that this would be done on a community basis, in line with the agreed policy.

The focus on local outcomes and partnership with Wates Residential was also praised by Councillors Paul Cunningham and Ray Hughes.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee supports the overall approach and progress for the delivery of new Council and affordable homes through the Strategic Housing and Regeneration Project (SHARP).