Decision Maker: Cabinet, Cornwall Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 12, 2025

Purpose: Report providing an update on the Council Homes position and the revision of the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan.

Content: DECISION:   RESOLVED:   1.  That authority be delegated to the Strategic Director for Sustainable Growth and Development, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer and the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Housing, to submit grant applications for the financial year 2025/26 and approve the acceptance of grants that are consistent with the delivery of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan and provided that such applications are otherwise consistent with the Financial Regulatory Framework and that any match funding can be met from within the approved revenue or capital budget.   2.  That authority be delegated to the Strategic Director for Sustainable Growth and Development, to authorise:  the purchase of additional new build homes or existing homes within warranty into the HRA for affordable housing, subject to: a.  completion of satisfactory due diligence including valuation, b.  consultation with the Monitoring Officer and the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Housing, c.  such acquisitions being limited to a maximum value of £3m in a single transaction or linked transactions (per vendor), and not to exceed £3m on any one site. d.  being in accordance with the code of practice for land and properties and HRA budget.   RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND TO COUNCIL:   1.  That the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan and budget for 2025/26, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report, be approved.   2.  That the rent for both social and affordable tenants be increased at CPI (September 2024 at 1.7%) plus 1% for the financial year for the 2025/26.   3.  That the rent for new affordable and social tenants increase be charged at formula rent and increase at CPI (September 2024 at 1.7%) plus 1% for the financial year for the 2025/26.   4.  That the rent charged on leases of shared ownership properties (created before October 2023) be increased by the January 2025 RPI plus 0.5% for the financial year 2025/26.   5.  That garage rents be increased by £3.50 per week (plus VAT where applicable) for the financial year 2025/26.   6.  That existing services charges be increased based on actual costs.   7.  That Cornwall Housing Limited (CHL) be delegated authority to consult with tenants in older person schemes forming part of the Housing Revenue Account and implement a new range of services that will be funded through service charges.      Reason for the Decision:    As contained within the report.   Alternative options considered:   None other than contained within the report.   Conflicts of interest declared:   None.   Dispensations granted in respect of a conflict of interest:   N/A