The Housing Management Panel: Central Area of Brighton and Hove Council discussed several key issues, including the re-election of the resident co-chair, the Housing Performance Report for Q3 2023/24, a review of the Housing Allocations Policy, and concerns about antisocial behaviour in council properties. The panel also addressed fire safety in high-rise buildings and the need for better community engagement in setting up tenancy association meetings.

Housing Performance Report Q3 2023/24

Martin Reid provided a verbal brief on the Housing Performance Report for Q3 2023/24. Emma Salcombe queried whether the performance statistics included emails, to which Martin Reid clarified that the figures were solely for calls received. Residents expressed concerns about repeated repairs due to poor initial work quality. Martin Reid explained that the repair service had been brought in-house to minimise the use of external contractors. Emma Salcombe suggested better inclusion of resident inspections in the repair process. Rosemary Johnson raised concerns about residents being repeatedly billed for repairs, and Martin Reid clarified that leaseholders were charged service fees and was unaware of repeat billings. Chris Vine questioned why leaseholders were not offered the same repair services as residents, and Grant Ritchie confirmed this issue would be reviewed.

Antisocial Behaviour in Council Properties

A resident made a representation on behalf of five households affected by antisocial behaviour, raising concerns about intimidation and reduced quality of life. Rosemary Johnson seconded the representation, noting similar issues in Craven Vale and that the police had been more responsive than the council. Eileen Stewart highlighted the council's limited resources and the impact of underinvestment in public sector bodies like mental health services.

Housing Allocations Policy Review: Consultation

Luke Harris delivered a verbal brief on the Housing Allocations Policy Review. Councillor Thomson requested clarification on the succession procedure, and Luke Harris explained that the policy was being changed to ensure a more equitable distribution of properties. Rosemary Johnson suggested that evicted individuals should not be entitled to new properties, and Martin Reid assured that efforts were being made to avoid repeating past policy mistakes. Councillor Burden commended the prioritisation of the armed forces community and questioned the inclusion of those suffering from domestic abuse. Luke Harris confirmed that those suffering from domestic abuse would be exempt from the residency requirement.

Fire Safety in High-Rise Buildings

The Chair opened a discussion on fire safety measures, particularly in light of a recent fire at Theobald House. Residents raised concerns about differing regulations for e-scooters and mobility scooters despite similar fire risks. Martin Reid confirmed that proactive measures would be taken and that guidance would be updated to reflect contemporary risks.

Election of Resident Co-Chair

Emma Salcombe was re-elected as the resident co-chair with one vote for and one abstention. Residents noted the need for greater support from community engagement to set up tenancy association annual general meetings, ensuring more associations could vote in future elections.

Other Business

Rosemary Johnson informed the panel that Craven Vale’s community room would host a disco night on Wednesdays.