Decision Maker: Mid Suffolk Cabinet, Babergh Cabinet, Babergh Council

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 10, 2026

Purpose: To note/agree the 2026/27 HRA and 30 Year Business Plan

Content: It was RESOLVED: -   1.1          That the HRA Budget proposals for 2026/27 set out in this report, were endorsed for recommendation to Council on 26 February 2026.   1.2          That a CPI + 1% increase of 4.8% for social rents, equivalent to an average rent increase of £5.03 for social rent and affordable rent of £7.45, a week be implemented.   1.3          That the RPI increase of 4.5% in garage rents be implemented.   1.4          That sheltered housing service charges and utility charges were spread over 4 years to full recovery cost. Equivalent to £2.88 a week increased service charge, £0.77 a week increased heating charge and £0.88 a week increased water charge. That a General Needs service charge on blocks be implemented at an average £8.92 per week, per tenancy in a block, to achieve full cost recovery.   1.5          That the rent tolerance of 10% on Sheltered Accommodation properties be approved in line with guidance received from Trowers & Hamlins.   1.6          That in principle, Right to Buy (RTB) receipts should be retained within the Housing Revenue Account to enable continued development and acquisition of new council dwellings.   1.7          That the 30-year business plan (Appendix A) be endorsed for recommendation to Council on 26 February 2026 subject to accommodating changes following recent government announcements.   REASON FOR DECISION To bring together all the relevant information to enable Cabinet Members to review, consider and comment upon the Councils Housing Revenue Account budget for recommendations to Council.   Alternative Options Considered and Rejected: The Housing Revenue Account Budget for 2026/27 was an essential element in achieving a balanced budget and sustainable medium-term position, therefore no other options were appropriate in respect of this.   Any Declarations of Interests Declared: None Any Dispensation Granted: Councillor Davis was granted a dispensation as a Council tenant.