The Cabinet of Ashfield District Council met on 17 June 2024 and agreed to adopt the new Statement of Gambling Policy, approve a new Housing Strategy, and note the content of a report on the Housing Revenue Account.

Statement of Gambling Policy 2024-2027

Councillors discussed the adoption of a new Statement of Gambling Policy for the period from 2024 to 2027.

The Gambling Act 2005 requires all Licensing Authorities to prepare a Statement of the principles they will apply when exercising their functions under the Act. The Council's current Statement of Gambling Policy was adopted in January 2021 and will expire in January 2025. It was noted that there was a requirement to have regard to the statutory guidance issued by the Gambling Commission, which has been updated since the last review.

The Council consulted on a new policy between March and May 2024, which received one response. There were no objections to the content of the proposed policy.

The Cabinet agreed to adopt the new Statement of Gambling Policy with effect from 30 January 2025.

Housing Strategy 2024-2029

Councillors discussed proposals for a new Housing Strategy, setting out the Council’s housing priorities over the next five years.

The Housing Act 2004 places a duty on local authorities to:

“prepare a strategy for meeting the housing needs in its area of (a) part 6 and part 7 applicants; and (b) other people who live in or might reasonably be expected to move to, its district”.

The Strategy sets out the Council's commitment to improving the quality of homes in the district. Key priorities within the strategy include:

• Preventing homelessness and providing support for those at risk of homelessness
• Increasing the supply of affordable housing
• Improving the quality and energy efficiency of existing homes
• Supporting vulnerable residents to live independently

It was noted that the strategy has been developed following extensive consultation with residents, partners, and stakeholders.

The Cabinet agreed to adopt the Housing Strategy 2024-2029.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) - Monitoring Report

Councillors received a report providing an update on the performance of the Housing Revenue Account for the first quarter of 2024/25.

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is a ring-fenced account that local authorities use to manage their housing stock. It records income and expenditure relating to council housing, such as rent, service charges, and maintenance costs.

The report provided details on income and expenditure for the first three months of the financial year and highlighted any variances from the budget. It also included information on key performance indicators, such as rent arrears and void properties.

Councillors noted that the report indicated that the HRA was performing in line with expectations. The report was for information only, so no decision was required.