The Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel met on Wednesday, 4th March 2026, to discuss updates on the Reardon Court extra care scheme, the council's approach to damp and mould, and the progress of the Joyce and Snells estate regeneration project. The panel noted that the work programme for 2025/26 had been completed and confirmed future meeting dates.

Reardon Court Update

Neil Wightman, Director of Housing Services (Residents), presented an update on Reardon Court, an extra care facility developed in partnership between Housing and Adult Social Care. The scheme now comprises 70 fully occupied, self-contained one and two-bedroom flats for elderly residents requiring additional care. The panel was informed that this development addresses a significant housing need for older individuals with care requirements. This project marked the first time the Housing department had collaborated closely with Adult Social Care to construct a development from the ground up, and lessons have been learned, particularly regarding the logistics of housing residents who meet the criteria for older persons' accommodation and their specific care needs. Members sought clarification on how residents were housed, distinguishing between existing housing tenants and private owners. They were advised that accommodating multiple high-care residents simultaneously presented challenges and required balancing with those with lower care needs. The building features two large lifts capable of accommodating a bed, and numerous fully wheelchair-accessible flats. The resident mix includes existing housing tenants downsizing, individuals from temporary accommodation, and those from the private sector.

Damp and Mould Update

Andrew Cotton, Service Director for Council Housing (Homes), provided an update on the council's strategy for managing damp and mould. He outlined that the council operates within the regulatory framework of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and has updated its policies and procedures, including the Asset Management Strategy and Repairs Policy. A dedicated Damp and Mould Task Force has been established, which collaborates across departments and with Public Health partners to respond to reports, assess risks, and implement remedial works. The council is consistently meeting statutory response times, achieving 100% compliance on 24-hour orders. Panel members inquired about the council's preparedness for the introduction of Awaab's Law, noting that the council had been assessed positively in terms of readiness. Concerns were also raised regarding the adequacy of the budget for damp and mould issues and whether expenditure was on track to prevent overspending. The panel was reassured that the budget was sufficient.

Joyce and Snells Update

Sarah Lovell, Regeneration Programme Director, presented an update on the Joyce and Snells estate regeneration scheme. Key milestones highlighted included securing planning permission and the subsequent approval of the main works contractor, Hill Partnership. The scheme has progressed through enabling works, detailed design development, and submissions for Building Safety Regulator gateway approvals. The project aims to create a cohesive, sustainable neighbourhood by accelerating delivery through a revised phasing plan. This revised plan involves bringing forward Phase 2, which will reduce demolition and increase the number of new homes built, thereby expediting the rehousing of residents. The scheme also intends to deliver a mix of new social and affordable housing, enhance public spaces, and strengthen community ties. Ongoing work involves refining designs and managing the complexities of phased construction to ensure timely delivery while maintaining resident support. Members sought clarification on the number of homes expected to be completed by 2032. To date, 60 secure tenants have been moved into new homes, and bringing forward Phase 2 with Block B will accommodate all current tenants. Concerns were also raised regarding funding, including total costs, sources of finance, and the financial viability of the scheme. It was explained that the Housing Development Programme has a series of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that this scheme meets, making it viable from a phased perspective.

Work Programme and Future Meetings

The panel noted that the Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Panel Work Programme for 2025/26 had been completed. The dates for future meetings were also noted, to be confirmed following the Annual Council meeting on Wednesday, 27th May 2026.