The Homes and Regeneration Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 17 September 2026 to review performance, discuss housing policies, and consider supported housing schemes. Key decisions included the adoption of Option 2 for the Housing Service Charge Policy, which will see a longer, phased removal of the service charge cap to ensure affordability while moving towards full cost recovery. The committee also noted the progress on supported housing schemes and accepted a revised submission date for a delayed report on homelessness services.

2026-27 End of Quarter 1 Performance Report

The committee reviewed the Quarter 1 performance report for 2026-27, which detailed progress against the council's Corporate Strategy and Wellbeing Objectives. Discussions highlighted challenges in bringing empty properties back into use, with officers noting that legal and probate issues could cause delays. The average time taken for positive planning enforcement action remained above the target of 180 days, with officers explaining that the focus had shifted to implementing enforcement strategies and that legal complexities could prolong cases. Members expressed concern regarding the Percentage of planning appeals dismissed action, noting that remedial actions implied that the Planning Committee had refused applications without sufficient evidence, particularly concerning Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The committee acknowledged the impact of HMOs on communities and expressed hope that a Task & Finish Group would address these issues. The committee unanimously resolved to note the report.

Housing Service Charge Policy Review Report

The committee considered options for the future Housing Service Charge Policy, which covers communal areas and facilities in blocks of flats, sheltered schemes, and supported housing projects. The current service charge cap was last reviewed in September 2023, with a commitment to a gradual, incremental removal. Three options were presented: Option 1, the existing phased removal over three years; Option 2, an extended incremental removal over four or more years; and Option 3, immediate removal of the cap. Members expressed support for Option 2, believing it would protect vulnerable residents from sharp increases while allowing the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) subsidy to be reduced gradually. Questions were raised about the HRA subsidy and estimated costs for 2026-27, with officers explaining that future costs are difficult to estimate as they are based on actual usage. The committee was also advised that communal area service charges are generally claimable under Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, but personal area charges are not. The committee unanimously resolved to recommend to Cabinet that Option 2 be adopted.

Supported Housing Schemes

The committee received a report on the council's approach to increasing the supply of specialist supported accommodation for individuals with learning disabilities and mental health support needs through the HRA. The Cabinet Member for Homes highlighted that demand is increasing and that these schemes offer a more cost-effective and person-centred alternative to residential care. Currently, there are 67 units of accommodation, with projections indicating a need for at least 116 individuals over the next two years, many with complex support needs. Four new schemes are in development, with £3.3 million allocated through the HRA. Concerns were raised about the geographical spread of schemes, particularly the perceived lack in the North and West of the county, and the desire for residents to remain close to their families and communities. Officers explained that accommodation needs plans would consider individual preferences for location and that partner Housing Associations and private sector providers also contribute to the supply. The committee welcomed the continued expansion of supported accommodation, believing it leads to better outcomes for individuals. The committee unanimously resolved to note the report.

Non-Submission of Scrutiny Report

The committee was informed of the non-submission of the Homelessness Wrap Around Floating Support Update report. The Head of Housing explained that the delay was due to the service being in its early stages of operation, with recruitment and integration into evolving service delivery models still ongoing. Providing a report at this stage would not offer meaningful data for scrutiny. A revised submission date of 31 August 2027 was accepted. The committee unanimously resolved to note the reasons for non-submission and accept the revised date.

Scrutiny Actions Update

The committee reviewed an update on actions, requests, and referrals from previous meetings. A question was raised regarding the Task and Finish Group on Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), with updates to be provided as standalone agenda items. The committee also enquired about the status of the Outdoor Education Centre move from Pendine to Pembrey and whether residential accommodation would be available at the new site. This query will be followed up with officers. The committee unanimously resolved to note the report.

Forthcoming Items

The committee noted the forthcoming items for its next meeting on 12 November 2026. These include the Council Annual Report 2025-26, the Rent Affordability Assessment Report, Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring for 2026-27, and the 2025-26 Budget Outturn Report. The committee unanimously resolved to approve the forthcoming items.

Minutes of the Previous Meeting

The committee signed the minutes of the meeting held on 6 July 2026 as a correct record. The committee unanimously resolved to approve the minutes.