Decision

These flats are vital in the Council’s efforts to prevent and relieve homelessness in its borough. They are a key piece in the jigsaw puzzle of managing homelessness and keeping emergency accommodation numbers as low as possible, whilst enabling the best outcome for customers.

Reasons for the decision

The bedspaces deliver value for money because without them, the Council would incur the costs for 8 households x 52 weeks of the year in B&B, which is far higher than it would pay for emergency accommodation. At a rate of £55 per night (the cheapest possible rate), the cost of emergency accommodation to the Council would be £20,020 per household compared to a cost of £5,572.91 per household for support for a year.. It is in the interests of local residents to be able to access supported housing within the borough to rebuild their lives, and aligns with the Corporate Priorities of an inclusive borough, a well run Council and providing decent and affordable housing.
There is budget available for this non key decision with the Housing Options budget, which was approved as part of the overall corporate budget at Full Council on 25/2/25.

Alternative options considered

MUST be completed / actions explained. If there are no alternative options, state 'None'.
None - A2Dominion South own the accommodation and provide the support so there are not alternative options.