Decision Maker: Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet, Eastbourne Borough Council Full Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 12, 2025

Purpose: Recommendations to full Council in respect of the housing revenue account for 2025/26.

Content: Recommend to Full Council (Budget and policy framework):   (1) The HRA Revenue budget for 2025/26 and revised budget for 2024/25 as set out at Appendix 1 to the report.   (2) The five-year HRA Capital Programme as set out at Appendix 2 to the report.   (3) An increase of 2.7% to social and affordable rents (including shared ownership) with effect from 7 April 2025 in line with government policy   (4) When social rented supported accommodation properties are relet to new tenants, the applicable rent will be increased by 10% above target rent with effect from 7 April 2025 in line with government policy   (5) When affordable rented properties are relet to new tenants, the applicable rent is reset to a maximum of 80% of market rent (inclusive of Service Charges) with effect from 7 April 2025 in line with government policy   (6) That the revised service charges as set out in paragraphs 2.4 of the report and Appendix 3 are implemented with effect from 7 April 2025   (7) An increase of 10% to Garage rents with effect from 7 April 2025.   (8) To grant delegated authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Portfolio holder for Finance and Resources and the Chief Finance Officer to devolve the relevant Management Fee from now the former Eastbourne Homes Limited (EHL) to services inside the HRA.   (9) To note that £2.227m of Major Works capital expenditure profiled over 4 years between 2024/25 to 2027/28 is being 50% match funded by grant, subject to government grant bids. The Government scheme aims for improve EPC ratings in HRA properties.