Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

The Chief Officer (Community & Enterprise) presented an overview of the framework for the implementation of local lettings policies by setting out the approach and procedure that could be adopted by the Council, to respond and address local housing issues.  The framework gave consideration to good practice and the relevant legal and legislative requirements and guidance by setting out clear aims and objectives, evidence required, consultation and approval process and the need to monitor and review the effectiveness and outcomes achieved from any policies implemented.

In welcoming the report, Councillor Shotton said that this gave the Council an opportunity to utilise this particular aspect of the Act as a socially responsible landlord.  Councillor Attridge also spoke in support, clarifying that the intention was to approve the framework only at this stage.

Councillor Kevin Jones welcomed the timing of the proposal to coincide with the new Council build programmes and asked if there were plans to oppose any potential changes to restrict long-term tenancies in Wales, as proposed in England.  The Chief Officer clarified that housing was a fully devolved function to Wales and that there were growing significant differences between housing policy in England and Wales.  Therefore the proposed changes to long-term tenancies would not apply to Wales unless agreed by WG, which was considered unlikely.  Councillor Jones asked that this information be conveyed to Council tenants to give assurance on the position.

When asked by Councillor Bithell if the local lettings policies would apply to new build Council homes, the Chief Officer said that this would be considered case by case when considering proposals for each new development.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the proposed framework for the implementation of local lettings policies be approved; and

(b)       That delegated authority be granted to the Chief Officer (Community and Enterprise) and Senior Manager, Council Housing in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing to implement the framework for local lettings policies, in response to identified need and evidence.