Decision

To acquire the freehold of 32 Spa Road, Melksham, SN12 7NS for the purpose of providing accommodation within the HRA, as part of the Council House Build Programme for the specific use of HfU accommodation. To approve additional, spend associated with the purchase, including on costs and fees

Reasons for the decision

The decision is to allow the purchase of 32 Spa Road, Melksham, SN12 7NS, for the provision of HfU Accommodation. The value of the property can be justified and the attached valuation report details this

The property is a one-bed house sold on a freehold basis.

The property is in Melksham with HRA stock located close by and would make a good strategic purchase. Melksham is an established town for HfU housing. Housing Management surveyors have been consulted to assess and have confirmed this would be a suitable purchase for renting to tenants.

Following agreement of the purchase from the vendor, an inspection and the completion of a valuation report, a purchase price of [redacted] has been agreed for the property. Each party is responsible for their own legal and surveying fees.

Confirmation has been sought from the Head of Housing that it is a suitable home to have within Wiltshire Council’s housing portfolio for this purpose (HfU).

The payback year is year 0 for using an agreed Social Rent, with 100% being funded from Housing Migration and Resettlement grant funding.

Reason for decision
1. The property falls within the agreed property purchases for 2025/26 as agreed with CLT and Cabinet.
2. To provide suitable accommodation for those in need of HfU, and to reduce the Council’s risk for possible costs associated with providing accommodation.

See the attached document for considerations in line with Wiltshire Council’s Constitution.

Alternative options considered

Not to purchase - however there is an identified need for HfU Accommodation and therefore if this home is not purchased, another would be required to be found.