Agenda item

That the collaborative work undertaken to date and that currently in development be supported.

The Head of Housing introduced an update report on current collaborative work across North Wales in Housing services, which was reported regularly to the Committee.  She explained that with the emphasis on joint working between Councils, opportunities were explored at regular meetings of the North Wales Heads of Housing group in addition to that already underway as part of the Flintshire Futures programme.  A summary of current collaborative activity was appended to the report whilst at a lower level options for a joint approach on other issues, such as workforce training, were being explored to share the cost.

In response to a query from Councillor Rosetta Dolphin on the North Wales gypsy and traveller co-ordination group, the Head of Housing explained that a needs assessment had identified the need for a transient site for gypsies and travellers.  Following comments about current site provision in Flintshire, Wrexham and Anglesey, it was noted that Conwy and Denbighshire were identifying potential locations within their areas through the Local Development Plan (LDP) process.

Councillor Ian Dunbar referred to previous discussions on the Single Access Route to Housing (SARTH) project and sought an update on progress with the housing allocations system.  The Head of Housing advised that the policy, which had only recently been approved by Cabinet, would require a phased approach for implementation by December 2014.  Development of the Housing Options service would result in individuals having access to a wider range of information to ascertain the most appropriate housing option, thus enabling them to make an informed choice on their housing needs.

Councillor Dolphin spoke about the importance of due consideration of others in the area, such as elderly people, when allocating tenancies to individuals and suggested that local knowledge from the Police could assist.  Councillor George Hardcastle referred to the availability of Police resources and spoke of the need for stronger conditions within the tenancy agreement.

The Head of Housing gave assurances of thorough checks and balances prior to allocating tenancies and reminded Members that the Council had a duty to house individuals in the best place for them.  Although it was not possible to share tenancy information with Members, any concerns could be raised with Housing officers about vacant properties which were awaiting allocation.

The Cabinet Member for Housing advised that the SARTH policy included provision for improved sharing of information between landlords.  The Head of Housing added that a protocol was in place to work with the Police on more serious cases of breach of tenancies.

In response to comments from Councillor Paul Shotton on the Eco scheme, the Head of Housing advised that Wrexham Council was leading on the tendering exercise and that additional funding for energy efficiency schemes had been secured to work with local contractors.  She went on to suggest that an update on progress be submitted to a future meeting of the Committee.

Housing officers noted Councillor Mike Reece’s request for the collection of waste at some Council properties following repairs carried out.

RESOLVED:

That the collaborative work undertaken to date and that currently in development be supported.