Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek approval for the council to enter into a lease agreement to use a single residential property as temporary accommodation for homeless applicants on the terms set out within this report.

Decision

The Executive Director (Regeneration and Economic Development) in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development hereby:

i)        Approves the Council entering into a lease agreement with the Riverside Group for the residential property listed in Appendix 1 of the report, for use as temporary accommodation for homeless applicants on new terms set out within this report.

ii)        Authorises the Head of Legal Services to prepare and complete the necessary legal documentation.

Alternative options considered

Continue relying on hotel accommodation to accommodate households where temporary accommodation needs outweighs supply.  This was rejected because it would have a much greater negative financial impact on Council resources.

Seek to procure properties from the private rented sector.  This option is considered however increases in lease costs has meant it has not been possible to secure suitable leases at an affordable rate.