Decision

RESOLVED:

i.                     That Cabinet approve the proposal to upgrade and convert the vacant former older persons scheme at Parkside, Saffron Walden to form 14 self-contained family apartments to be utilised to provide Temporary Accommodation for those in housing need across the Uttlesford District Council (UDC) area.

ii.                   That Cabinet approve the budget, which is included within the HRA Business Plan, for all associated works at an estimated cost of £1,550,000 with contracts let in line with the Scheme of Delegation to Chief Officers as set out in the UDC Constitution.

Reasons for the decision

The report recommended investing £1.55m from the budgeted capital programme within the HRA Business Plan (2026 – 2056), to be approved by Cabinet in September 2026, to bring the vacant Uttlesford District Council (UDC) housing site known as Parkside in Saffron Walden back into use. The report proposed upgrading and converting Parkside, Saffron Walden into 14 family sized two bedroomed apartments to be let, initially, as temporary accommodation at a cost of £1.55m.  Parkside is considered suitable for family temporary accommodation and could reduce the current reliance on costly nightly paid accommodation. The report concluded that retaining and reusing the Parkside site supported UDC’s affordable housing objectives, reduces ongoing financial pressures, and responds most effectively to alleviate local housing and makes best use of the assets and finance available to the Council. 

Alternative options considered

None.