The Housing, Environment and Healthy Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Gateshead Council met on 17 June 2024 to discuss various performance reports, target setting for the upcoming year, and updates on housing complaints and construction services. Key decisions included the approval of new performance targets for housing and the review of the year-end performance report for 2023-24.

Year-End Performance Report 2023-24

The committee reviewed the HEHC OSC Year-End Performance Report 2023-24. The report highlighted significant achievements and areas needing improvement. Councillors noted the successful completion of several housing projects and improvements in community health initiatives. However, concerns were raised about the slower-than-expected progress in environmental sustainability projects. One councillor remarked, While we have made strides in housing, our environmental goals are lagging behind, and we need to address this urgently.

Housing Performance Target Setting

The committee discussed and approved the Housing Performance Target Setting for 2024-25. The new targets aim to improve housing quality and reduce waiting times for repairs. Arguments in favour of the new targets included the need for more ambitious goals to meet the council's housing strategy. Some councillors expressed concerns about the feasibility of these targets, given current resource constraints. However, the majority agreed that setting higher targets would drive better performance.

Housing Complaints Performance

The Housing Complaints Performance 2023-24 report was presented, showing a slight increase in the number of complaints compared to the previous year. The committee discussed the reasons behind this increase, which included delays in repair services and communication issues. Councillors stressed the importance of addressing these complaints promptly to maintain public trust. One councillor stated, We must ensure that our residents feel heard and that their issues are resolved swiftly.

Construction Services Update

An update on Construction Services focused on repairs and voids performance. The report indicated improvements in the turnaround time for void properties, but highlighted ongoing challenges in meeting repair deadlines. The committee discussed potential strategies to improve efficiency, including better resource allocation and the use of new technologies. The head of construction services noted, We are exploring innovative solutions to enhance our repair services and reduce void times.

Complaint Responses Report

The Complaint Responses Report was also reviewed. The report detailed the council's efforts to improve response times and the quality of resolutions. Councillors acknowledged the progress made but emphasized the need for continuous improvement. One councillor commented, While we have made headway, we must keep pushing for faster and more effective complaint resolutions.

Work Programme for 2024-25

Finally, the committee discussed the Work Programme for the upcoming year. The programme includes a focus on housing development, environmental sustainability, and community health initiatives. Councillors agreed on the importance of a balanced approach that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals.