Purpose

To seek the approval of the individual budget allocations and projects within the 2026/27 Housing Investment Programme (HIP) for the major repair, improvement, enhancement and adaption of the Council's housing stock and authority to procure the works by inviting tenders or through approved purchasing framework agreements.
The HIP is not solely a capital allocation exercise; it is a principle mechanism through which the Council provides safe, decent and well-maintained homes and demonstrates that investment decisions respond to tenants' needs.
The Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, revised Consumer Standards, Tenant Satisfaction Measures, enhanced Housing Ombudsman expectations and increased scrutiny of building safety, damp and mould, disrepair, data assurance and tenant engagement require the Council to maintain reliable evidence and show that investment is targeted, delivered and monitored effectively.

Decision

To approve the individual budget allocations and projects within the 2026/27 Housing Investment Programme (HIP) ensuring the required level of service expected by the Consumer Standards 1 April 2024 is delivered through major repair, improvement, enhancement and adaption of the Council's housing stock.

Alternative options considered

On 7th September 2026, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government announced in Parliament that a review of the Local Government Reorganisation programme was commencing and that the decision made in March 2026 for Greater Essex (and other areas) had been withdrawn in light of new legal advice. Following this announcement, local authorities received correspondence from the Minister of Housing, Communities and Local Government requesting that until this review has concluded, Councils cease work on implementing the decisions that have previously been announced. The timetable for completion of the review is unknown at this time.
The proposal is not impacted by MHCLG's request, as a robust, evidence-led HIP will support organisational resilience in the context of devolution and Local Government Reorganisation. Reliable property-level stock data, compliance records, approved investment priorities, clear governance and documented delivery arrangements will help protect continuity of landlord obligations and provide a stronger basis for any future transition, due diligence or integration of services.