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RESOLVED: Cabinet:
a)   
Note the findings from recent inspections and due
diligence on NPH’s performance
b)   
Noted the content of this report and the steps being
taken to improve the performance of NPH
c)    
Noted that the Council will be taking forward the
delivery of large-scale social housing developments in
future.
d)   
Noted the Business Improvement Action Plan detailed
in Appendix A
e)   
Approved the revised governance arrangements between
the Council and NPH detailed in Appendix B.
 
REASONS RESOLVED:
1.    
The Management Agreement sets out a requirement for
NPH to report performance information to the Council at regular
intervals. The Council’s Cabinet receives information on the
performance of NPH designed to give WNC the necessary assurance as
landlord and as the Registered Provider, that its housing stock is
being managed in accordance with the provisions within the
Management Agreement, and in line with the Council’s
expectations, and in accordance with relevant legislation and
regulation.
2.    
Recent changes in the legislation and regulations
have seen an increased focus on decent homes standards and in the
legal responsibilities of the Council. Both have led to the Council
strengthening its monitoring and oversight capacity and seeking
more detailed information on the conditions of its housing stock in
relation to the standards required by the Regulator of Social
Housing under the consumer standards.
3.    
It has become clear to the Council through this
process that there are serious shortcomings in relation to a number
of standards linked to Health and Safety and that past reporting
may not have accurately reflected the true level of compliance
across the Councils housing stock.
4.    
In addition reviews were completed in relation a
number of large development schemes that NPH had been progressing
that highlighted both viability and financial issues.
5.    
It is important that the Councils now shares the
findings and its early discussions with the Regulator of Social
Housing (RSH) and more critically provides clear plans for the
steps it is taking to address the concerns uncovered and ensure
that all its residents are living in good quality and safe
homes.
 
ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:
The Council will consider every
option available to ensure the delivery of its housing management
services are in line with regulatory requirements. This includes
future consideration of bringing services under direct Council
delivery and control. Any changes to the current delivery model
would require detailed business planning, tenant consultation and
secretary of state approval.