Issue - meetings

B Report of Director of Housing. (Copy to herewith)

Cabinet approved Housing Strategy 2010-2015

Councillor Clarke addressed Cabinet and welcomed the report and referred to page 73 of the strategy and the reference to Spring Boroughs and a “balanced housing market”.  He observed that residents might not wish a more balanced housing market, supporting social housing instead.  Personally he supported social housing managed by the Council.

Councillor Mildren addressed Cabinet and supported the comments made by Councillor Clarke.  He suggested that there should be regular updates on the implementation of the strategy and noted that projects might be back loaded because of the current financial situation.

Councillor Beardsworth submitted a report that summarised the main priorities of the Housing Strategy for 2010-2015 and in particular referred to the priorities set out in paragraph 3.3 of the report.  She noted that the previous strategy had concentrated on social housing whereas this new strategy dealt with all housing.  She also observed that if there were changes nationally then the strategy might require amendment.

Councillor P D Varnsverry observed that the references on page 62 of the strategy met the concerns expressed by Councillor Clarke in respect of engagement with residents and businesses in Spring Boroughs.

The Chair welcomed the fact that the strategy now covered the whole of the Housing sector across Northampton and that there had been no adverse comments about the consultation undertaken in arriving at the strategy.

RESOLVED:                        That the Housing Strategy 2010-2015 be approved.