Browse

Decision details

ACCH-003-12 - Amendments to the Private Sector Housing Renewal Interim Strategy and Policy 2009-2010

Decision Maker: Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Campuses, Area Boards and Broadband

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: Yes

Purpose:

To seek Cabinet member approval to amend the private sector housing renewal interim strategy and policy 2009 – 2010 that was approved by cabinet on 11th November 2009.  To amend the delegated authority for discretionary grants and allowing for consideration to exceptional circumstances, amending the discretionary disabled assistance policy and removing three policies that are no longer actively used.

 

Decision:

It is recommended that through delegated authority the Housing Portfolio holder approves the amendments to the Private Sector Housing Renewal Interim Strategy and Policy April 2009-2010:-

 

  • The policies listed below should become individual policies and not form part of the private sector housing strategy:-
  • Mandatory DFG
  • Discretionary disabled facilities assistance
  • Repairs assistance
  • Empty homes assistance
  • Wessex Loans

 

  • Delegated authority for a discretionary DFG in excess of £10k should be approved by the service director in conjunction with the appropriate head of service.  Anything under £10k would be approved by the Private Sector Housing Manager.
  • To agree the revised wording of the discretionary disabled facilities assistance policy in Appendix A
  • Remove the policy on assistance for houses in multiple occupation, Landlords repairs assistance and SAP 35.

 

Reasons for the decision:

The changes that have been recommended will allow for easier more robust decisions being made in a timely manner and will ensure our policies comply with legislation as well as making them easier to administer for staff.

 

 

Alternative options considered:

The alternative is to retain the existing policies.

 

Other reasons / organisations consulted

Legal Services provided advice on the discretionary DFG policy regarding ‘fettering discretion’ and recommended our policy be changed to ensure compliance with legislation.

 

Contact: Nicole Smith 01249 706567 email;  nicole.smith@wiltshire.gov.uk.

Publication date: 27/03/2012

Date of decision: 27/03/2012

Effective from: 05/04/2012

Accompanying Documents: