The Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet meeting on 12 June 2024 focused on updates to social housing regulations and the introduction of a sustainable procurement policy. Decisions were made to approve the new social housing standards and the sustainable procurement policy, both aimed at improving community welfare and environmental sustainability.

Social Housing Regulation Update

Councillor Peter Diplock introduced the Social Housing Regulation Update, highlighting the importance of the new standards for tenant safety, transparency, and energy efficiency. Oliver Jones, Lead for Housing, Homelessness & Community Safety, detailed the changes brought by the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, which came into force on 1 April 2024. Key changes include:

• New consumer objectives focusing on safety, transparency, and energy efficiency.
• Strengthened enforcement powers for the regulator, including the removal of the serious detriment test.
• Introduction of four new consumer standards: safety and quality, transparency, influence and accountability, tenancy, and neighbourhood and community standards.

Jones noted that Eastbourne participated in a pilot inspection in October 2022, which helped shape their response to the new standards. The council has developed action plans to ensure compliance and improve service quality. The recommendations were approved without opposition.

Sustainable Procurement Policy

Serena Stallard addressed the Cabinet regarding the Sustainable Procurement Policy, expressing concerns about the environmental and human impact of electric vehicle production and other sustainability measures. Despite her reservations, the policy was introduced by Councillor Dan Butcher and further explained by Peter Jenion.

The policy aims to align procurement with the council's environmental plans, particularly the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. It incorporates lessons learned from consultations and focuses on achieving value for money while minimizing environmental damage. The policy will apply to both Eastbourne Borough Council and Lewes District Council.

Councillor Jim Murray responded to Stallard's concerns, acknowledging the issues with embodied carbon and exploitation in third-world countries but emphasizing the council's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. The policy was approved, with a focus on supporting local businesses and ensuring long-term sustainability.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Printed minutes of the meeting.