Decision

1. 1

The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services that sought approval for the draft Housing Asset Management Strategy 2026-2031 and launch of a public consultation to inform the final version. The Strategy would establish the Council's approach to managing, maintaining and investing in Housing Revenue Account (HRA) assets over the next five years. It sets out how the Council will ensure homes remain safe, compliant, energy efficient and financially sustainable, while supporting housing growth, neighbourhood improvement and the delivery of the Housing Strategy 2024-2034.

Following a request from Members of the Committee, the Chair agreed that an all-Member briefing would be arranged during the public consultation period.

1. 2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:- That the Housing Policy Committee:

(a)  endorses the draft Housing Asset Management Strategy 2026-2031 (Appendix 1) and approves the launch of public consultation; and

(b)  agrees that the outcome of the consultation and a final version of the Housing Asset Management Strategy will be presented back to the Housing Policy Committee in March 2027 for consideration and approval.

1. 3

Reasons for Decision

1. 3.1

It is important that a city like Sheffield has a long-term strategic plan for how it will manage its HRA assets to ensure long-term sustainability of the HRA, now and in years to come. It is also of the utmost importance that we involve tenants and wider stakeholders a voice in the further development of the Strategy. It is therefore recommended that the Housing Policy Committee:  Consider and approve the 5-year Asset Management Strategy, as set out in Appendix 1 for public consultation.

1. 4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

1. 4.1

Alternative Option 1: Continue Without a Strategy

The development of an Asset Management Strategy is not a statutory duty. The Council is not, therefore required to produce one. The Council could continue to manage assets through existing arrangements.

However, this option was rejected because it would not provide a coherent framework for responding to increasing regulatory requirements, investment pressures and strategic priorities. A long-term strategic document is seen as critical to guide planning, development, and investment planning over the next five years. The approach of not having an Asset Management Strategy is therefore not recommended.