Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 19, 2026

Purpose: This report seeks permission to engage in the Prisoners Building Homes initiative on a pilot site to explore the potential benefits to the Council House Building Program and delivery of Affordable Homes with additional social value by supporting serving and released prisoners with employment and rehabilitation within the County.

Content: (1)            That the Cabinet approved participation in the Prisoners Building Homes (‘PBH’) Scheme; and   (2)            That the Cabinet approved of the indicative costs required to progress the development of Princesfield garages, Waltham Abbey, EN9 3PL into planning as a pilot PBH site. This cost would be circa £5k per unit, as detailed in paragraph 7.6 and further detailed in Appendix 3.