Decision Maker: Housing Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: April 24, 2025

Purpose: Approval of an updated published document which outlines the policy for the management of asbestos in council housing.

Content: 8.1 The committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services seeking approval of an updated Asbestos Management Policy for the Housing service. The policy included clear standards which set out the Council’s response to Asbestos in Council stock. It detailed the policy and management approach, as well as what is required of partners     8.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee: -   a)    Approves the content of the Asbestos Management Policy in the form attached at Appendix 1. b)    Notes that approval of the Asbestos Management Policy is essential to ensuring that our practices continue to follow regulatory guidelines.     8.3 Reasons for Decision 8.3.1 The Council has a statutory duty to manage Asbestos.     8.3.2 We ask the Committee to consider and approve the updated revised Policy as attached in the form attached at Appendix 1.     8.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected 8.4.1 Alternative Option 1: Do Nothing   The Policy could remain as it is with no amendment, but there is a risk that it is unclear that we are meeting regulatory and statutory duty, as some sections have not been refreshed since 2009. In order to remain clear and transparent, it is recommended that we amend the Policy.     8.4.2 Alternative Option 2: Amend the Policy and keep the Management Plan within the Policy   Although this would bring the policy up to date, this option is not recommended because the policy would still have the issue of being for too many audiences, which may muddle any clarity and information the document provides. It would be extremely lengthy, as many other Councils have Policies between six and twenty-five pages. Given that the Management Plan in whole is only needed for internal use and contractors, it is recommended that we separate the Policy and Management Plan out, so that the resulting Policy is clear and transparent for Tenants.