Decision details

To authorise the Head of Property Services or in  his absence the Executive Director – Finance & Assets to take decisions (including key decisions) to purchase dwellings which  he considers to be suitable for use as affordable housing (in accordance with the parameters set out in Section 4 below), and subject to budget allocation, and in consultation with Cabinet Member – Housing.

To facilitate timely executive decisions on this matter

In order to maximise flexibility and to achieve value for money, the council will purchase homes on the following basis:

1.      Homes of any size will be considered.

2.      Affordable housing being provided pursuant to s106 obligations and/or housing that has previously been provided as affordable housing pursuant to s106 obligations will be considered

3.      Former social housing properties will also be considered..

4.      Subject to any relevant s106 provisions providing for a lesser than open market rate being paid,  in which case that lower rate will be paid, open market rates will be paid, subject to the maximum price of £350k on homes of 3 bedrooms or more

5.      Consideration will also be given to the purchase of long term empty homes as part of our strategy to reduce the number of vacant homes in the Borough.

6.      A range of operational criteria will be met to ensure that properties purchased will be both appropriate and fit for purpose as social/affordable housing. Particular regard will be given to the following:

a)      Ex-council homes. All houses or flats will be considered. This may include homes of non-standard construction, where this is likely to assist with future potential regeneration aspirations or options appraisals; All homes bought will be let at the Decent Homes Standard.

b)      For all other (i.e. non-ex-council) homes, only houses will be considered, unless the purchase is for a block of flats. This will ensure there is adequate control over the management of the area.. All homes bought will be let at the Decent Homes Standard.   

To refer the decisions on spend to Cabinet. Not favoured because of the need to facilitate timely executive decisions.

To proceed as planned

Cabinet Members.