Issue - meetings

A report from the Director of Health, Housing and Adult Social Care and Director of Regeneration, Leisure and Culture is attached. This explains the consultation process that will be undertaken with residents. (Key decision – reference number 3373)

(Report No.86)

(9.15 – 9.20 pm)

Councillor Ahmet Oykener (Cabinet Member for Housing) introduced the report of the Director of Health, Housing and Adult Social Care and Director of Regeneration, Leisure and Culture (No.86) explaining the consultation process that would be undertaken with residents.

NOTED

1.                  This estate and the surrounding area are in need of regeneration.  The estate is run down and large sums are being spent on maintenance.

2.                  Officers have started talking to residents and have received early positive responses to the proposals. 

3.                  There will be a further report to Cabinet, on the consultation outcomes, in Spring 2012.

4.                  The Council Leader was aware that this was a long term project; he wanted to ensure that the proposals had the tenants’ support, and that sufficient finances were in place. 

Alternative Options Considered: To undertake basic decent homes works. This option involved improving the estate to a basic decent homes standard and included internal works only. This option was currently unfunded and would not bring the regeneration benefits that the area needs.

DECISION: The Cabinet

1.         noted and approved the consultation process as set out in the report;

2.         agreed to delegate authority to approve the demolition (in full or part) and rebuild of the Alma Estate to the Director of Health, Housing and Adult Social Care, the Director of Finance, Resources and Customer Services, the Cabinet Member for Housing and the Cabinet Member for Finance and Property, subject to the outcome of the Test of Opinion;

3.         noted the intention to take a report to Cabinet in 2012, after the conclusion of the consultation, setting out plans to regenerate the Alma Estate.

Reason: The approach of consulting residents prior to making major decisions was consistent with the Labour Administration’s policy of widening  the decision making process to incorporate the views of the local community, It was also consistent with the government’s Localism agenda.

(Key decision – reference number 3373)