(Joint report of Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health and Cabinet Member for Housing)
The report explained the outcome of a successful programme of meetings with the Council’s Registered Provider Partners at the Housing Associations Liaison Panel Meetings and in particular discussion about the Affordable Rent model. It described steps for pursuing possible future policy directions, making representations to (and influencing the approach of) the Council’s Registered Provider Partners.
Following consideration by the Strategic Housing Advisory Board, the Cabinet Member for Housing resolved that:
1) a review of the Borough Council’s planning practice to consider the changing environment regarding the funding and provision of affordable housing be undertaken, within the context of the evidence that will support the new local plan and a report be submitted to a future meeting of the Planning and Transportation Advisory Board;
2) there be a review of the Borough Council’s approach to negotiating with and influencing its Registered Provider Partners to address concerns regarding the affordability and sustainability of tenancies for some household types in relation to the Affordable Rent model; and
3) the Borough Council continue to engage with its Registered Provider Partners through the Housing Associations Liaison Panel to ensure that the existing social and affordable housing stock and future pipeline of affordable homes meets the Council’s strategic requirements and addresses identified housing need.