Decision details

To consider the North East Wales (NEW) Homes Business Plan 2019/2048.

Councillor Sean Bibby, the Interim Cabinet Member for Housing, introduced the report to consider the North East Wales (NEW) Homes Business Plan 2019/2048.  He provided background information and advised that the Business Plan sets out key elements of the proposed Development Strategy to increase the number of affordable rent properties over the next three years.  He reported on the main considerations, as detailed in the report, and referred to the NEW Homes Business Plans, Development Strategy, and Performance Plan which were appended to the report. 

                        During discussion the Housing Programmes Manager responded to the questions raised by Councillor Rosetta Dolphin regarding provision in the proposed Development Strategy to meet the needs of elderly people in the future.  He also responded to the further comments made by Councillor Dolphin concerning the withdrawal by NEW Homes of the managed lettings service for private landlords. 

Councillor Ted Palmer commented on discussions he had had with the previous Cabinet Member around the possibility of building single occupancy apartments at the former Ysgol Y Fron site in Holywell.  The Housing Programmes Manager said he was not aware of the discussion but would speak to Councillor Palmer following the meeting.

            During discussion on the Strategic Housing and Regeneration Programme (SHARP), Councillor Mike Reece enquired about the former Canton depot site.  The Chief Officer advised that a scheme was currently viable pending the outcome of discussions with Natural Resources Wales.

Members congratulated Officers on the achievements gained by NEW Homes to date.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Committee support the NEW Homes Business Plan 2019/48; and

(b)       That the Committee support the increase in future Prudential Borrowing through the Council (up to a maximum of £20m) for on-lending to NEW Homes for the purposes of developing or purchasing affordable homes subject to New Homes meeting agreed lending parameters.