Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

Councillor Attridge introduced the North East Wales (NEW) Homes Business Plan report which sought approval for the Business Plan and the proposed process for approval of new lending to NEW Homes for the development or purchase of affordable homes in Flintshire.

            The Business Plan set out the key elements of the company’s proposed growth plan to increase the number of properties managed and owned as affordable housing over the next five years.

            The Board of NEW Homes reviewed the development of the company and progress made against the original Business Plan objectives which resulted in a revised Business Plan for NEW Homes.

            The Chief Officer (Housing and Assets) explained that as part of the reviewing process, three main portfolio areas were considered against the projections made in the original Business Plan. They were: Strategic Housing and Regeneration Programme (SHARP), Section 106 Units and Managed Lettings with full details outlined in the report.

            Councillor Roberts praised the work undertaken in his ward which had seen unsuitable maisonettes being replaced, helping to transform the centre of Flint.   Councillor Thomas said there was still a shortage of affordable homes for rent and cited Llys Alexandra in Mold as a successful development.  Councillor Attridge said the policy question of affordable homes was being looked into.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the NEW Homes Business Plan 2018/2027 be approved; and

(b)       That authority be given under delegated powers to the Corporate Finance Manager, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance, to approve future prudential borrowing through the Council (up to a maximum of £10m) for on-lending to NEW Homes for the purposes of developing or purchasing affordable homes.  Subject to NEW Homes meeting agreed lending parameters outlined in Appendix 2 to the report.