Decision Maker: Scrutiny Committee - Communities

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: September 17, 2025

Purpose:

Content: The Committee noted the report and UNANIMOUSLY AGREED THE RECOMMENDATIONS BELOW:   Scrutiny Committee were asked to consider the recommendations being presented to Full Council on 25th September:   1.    Council approves an increase in the HRA capital programme of £3.377m for property acquisitions, legal and associated purchase costs, and any appropriate refurbishments or alterations, to be funded by HRA Reserves. 2.     Support the addition of these properties into HRA stock but with a temporary use of up to 2 years for temporary accommodation (General Fund) purposes 3.    That the final decision on property acquisitions is made by the Executive Director for Community Place and Economy in consultation with Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts Lead Member for Communities, Housing Revenue Account, Culture, Equalities, and Diversity. 4.    Delegate to the Chef Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) and the Executive Director of Community, Place and Economy, in conjunction with the Deputy Leaser of the Council and Lead Member for Finance, Procurement and Performance and the Lead Member for Communities, Housing Revenue Account, Culture and Equalities and Diversity to approve the tenure (social vs Affordable rents) of each property.   In addition to these published recommendations, one additional recommendation was proposed by Councillor Marcus Kravis at the meeting and seconded by Councillor Edric Hobbs:   5.    Officers to prepare a business case for further temporary accommodation acquisitions in anticipation of this proof of concept being successful.