Purpose

To seek approval for the adoption of the Grounds Maintenance Policy, which sets out a clear, consistent and transparent framework for how North Yorkshire Council Landlord Services plans, delivers and oversees grounds maintenance across Council managed housing land.

Decision

The Executive Member:

i) Approves in principle, the adoption of the Grounds Maintenance Policy subject to the confirmation of available funding as part of the HRA Business Plan and budget review process to be considered in October 2026.

ii) Approves the implementation of the Grounds Maintenance Policy and supporting Grounds Maintenance Specification from January 2027, to enable completion of the Service Level Agreement, development of supporting operational documentation, performance monitoring arrangements and tenant communications, subject to confirmation of available funding as part of the HRA Business Plan and budget review process to be considered in October 2026

iii) Notes the proposal to establish an Annual Investment Fund of £50,000 per annum for an initial period of five years, subject to approval through the HRA Business Plan and budget-setting process.

Reasons for the decision

The Grounds Maintenance Policy has been developed to harmonise service delivery following Local Government Reorganisation and replace differing arrangements inherited from former stock-holding authorities. The Policy establishes consistent countywide service standards, clarifies responsibilities and service expectations, supports effective performance monitoring and continuous improvement, and contributes to compliance with the Regulator of Social Housing's Consumer Standards.

The Policy has been informed by tenant engagement, scrutiny review activity and formal consultation and will provide tenants with a clear, equitable and transparent grounds maintenance service across North Yorkshire.

Alternative options considered

The option of retaining existing locality-based arrangements and differing grounds maintenance standards across former landlord areas was considered and rejected. This option would not provide a consistent customer experience, would perpetuate variations in service delivery and expectations, and would not support the Council's programme of HRA policy harmonisation following Local Government Reorganisation.