Purpose

To stop issuing flexible tenancies to new and current
council tenants whilst a review of the tenancy policy is
undertaken

Content

Approve an amendment to the
Council’s ‘Tenancy Strategy 2020’ and Tenancy
Policy to enable the temporary suspension of the Council’s
policy of awarding flexible (fixed-term) tenancies for new general
needs lettings for a six month period.

Reasons for the decision

1.    
To enable an amendment to the Council’s
existing policy, so as to provide a consistent and secure tenancy
offer to new tenants while the Council reviews its ‘Tenancy
Strategy 2020’ and Tenancy Policy.
 

2.    
To reduce administrative complexity and improve
tenant satisfaction.
 

3.    
To align with the direction of national regulation
and expectations around tenant stability and
empowerment.
 

Alternative options considered

Option 1 - Continue issuing flexible tenancies (do
nothing)
·        
This risks tenant insecurity and contradicts the
Council’s emerging strategic direction.
·        
Administering flexible tenancies requires additional
resource and monitoring.
Option 2 - Suspend flexible tenancies (recommended)
·        
Provides clarity and consistency during the Tenancy
Strategy and Tenancy Policy review.
·        
Aligns with current expectations around tenant
security and simplifies operations.
Option 3 - End flexible tenancies immediately and change policy
without a full review
·        
Not recommended due to governance and consultation
requirements.