Issue - meetings

That the Committee supports the progress made in meeting the priorities set out in the Local Housing Strategy 2019-24.

The Chief Executive introduced the annual update report to review progress on actions within the three priority areas of the Local Housing Strategy 2019-24 setting out how the Council, with its partners, would deliver affordable housing, provide relevant support to its residents and ensure the creation of sustainable homes.

The Housing Programmes Development Manager reported that good progress had been made despite the impact of challenges arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.  He summarised the key points in terms of changes introduced by Welsh Government, the new framework for accessing social housing grants and the development of a prospectus on local housing needs.  The Action Plan included plans to increase extra care provision across the County by developing a facility in Buckley and to increase support to tackle homelessness which had increased nationwide during the emergency situation.

In response to a question from Councillor Veronica Gay on residents with rent arrears, the Chief Executive acknowledged the various factors involved and said that support was available for those who were willing to engage with the Council to reduce their arrears.

Councillor Ray Hughes asked about building timber-framed properties to increase affordable housing supply.  The Chief Executive advised that modern methods of construction were used on some of the Council’s housing schemes and that there was a need to develop the market and the skills involved.  He noted Councillor Hughes’ request for a site visit to view an example of this type of housing scheme.

In response to questions from the Chairman, officers spoke about work on a specific local housing scheme which formed part of a national pilot project.  Information was also shared on apprenticeship opportunities included within the procurement framework for housing schemes.

The recommendation, which was amended to reflect the debate, was moved and seconded by Councillors Ron Davies and Ray Hughes.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee supports the progress made in meeting the priorities set out in the Local Housing Strategy 2019-24.