The Homes Policy Development Group of Mid Devon Council met on 11 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the government's consultation on social housing allocation reforms, performance dashboards, biodiversity duties, and tenant satisfaction measures.

Government Consultation on Social Housing Allocation Reforms

The group reviewed a report from Simon Newcombe, Corporate Manager for Public Health, Regulation and Housing, regarding the government's consultation on reforms to social housing allocation in England. The consultation seeks views on new or updated tests, including the UK connection test, local connection test, income test, anti-social behaviour test, terrorism test, and the false statement test. Concerns were raised about the anti-social behaviour test, with some members questioning whether the proposed 3 strikes and you are out policy might increase homelessness. The group agreed that the review would form the basis of Mid Devon District Council's response to the consultation, incorporating comments made during the meeting.

Performance Dashboard Q3

The group noted the Performance Dashboard for Q3, which provided summary information on Mid Devon Housing (MDH) performance. Key points included two corporate risks related to the Homes Policy Development Group, four General Fund indicators being either red or amber, and improved performance levels under the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). The group discussed the need for more targets and the refinement of the dashboard, which is still a work in progress.

Biodiversity Duty Report

A briefing paper from Jason Ball, Climate and Sustainability Specialist, and Richard Marsh, Director of Place and Economy, was presented, highlighting the council's responsibility to meet biodiversity duties. The group discussed the need for tenant engagement, enhancement projects like roosting bricks in housing developments, and the potential conflict between biodiversity and other aspirations, such as parking on housing developments. The importance of planting wildflower meadows was also emphasized.

MDH Service Delivery Report for Q3

The group reviewed a report from Simon Newcombe on MDH's activities, including enforcement. The report noted that heating and routine repairs had dipped below target due to a focus on emergency repairs, but performance had since improved. Issues with void properties and the presence of asbestos in 77% of council properties were also discussed. The group noted that no RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) had been found in any council properties.

Garage / Asset Management Presentation

A presentation from Simon Newcombe and Mike Lowman, Building Services Operations Manager, provided information on asset and garage management. The council's Asset Management Strategy is being reviewed, with a focus on health and safety, modernisation of garages, and the potential for adapting garages for housing. The group discussed the valuable income source that garages represent for the council.

Tenant Satisfaction Measures Perception Survey and Action Plan Update

The group received a presentation from Claire Fry, Operations Manager for Housing Services, on the Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSM) perception survey and action plan. The survey collected data on tenant satisfaction, with 635 responses received. Initial findings indicated that the council's stock is well-maintained, repairs are carried out effectively, and Mid Devon Housing listens to its tenants. The group discussed the potential for separating results by ward and the importance of targeting different groups in future surveys.

For more details, you can refer to the minutes of the meeting.