Purpose

The Housing Revenue Account MTFP 2024-25 to
2027-28 report, approved by Council on 15 February 2024, included a
budget of £15.815 in 2024-25 for new builds and property
acquisitions. The Housing Revenue Account MTFP 2024-25 to 2027-28
report, approved by Cabinet on 6 February 2024, included the
decision to release capital expenditure for this purpose.

Housing Services is undertaking a programme of building new,
affordable social housing to meet local housing need. However,
members recognised that this programme alone cannot meet all
housing need in Darlington. Therefore, the decision has been made
to release capital funding to purchase ex-council homes, which have
previously been sold under the Right to Buy scheme and which are on
the market to purchase.

Acquisitions will assist the Council to meet the new Council Plan
priority of providing good quality, safe and affordable
accommodation that meets the current and future needs of Darlington
residents.

Properties will be assessed on price, condition and demand from the
current Housing waiting list. A review of progress will be
completed, and results provided to Cabinet annually.

1 September 2024

Decision

That the Assistant Director – Housing
and Revenues approves the purchase of individual properties, to
meet housing need, in accordance with the approved MTFP for the
Housing Revenue Account.

The purchase of properties is an important part of the
Council’s housing programme and will provide much needed
affordable homes to Darlington residents.