The Lead Member for Environmental Services introduced the report and stated that the Council’s Housing Service was under increasing pressure. The Lead Member for Housing and Health explained that whilst additional opportunities to progress the 1,000 Affordable Homes Programme were being identified, the Council’s existing temporary accommodation (TA) was in high demand with many families unable to move from TA into permanent accommodation. In response, the Council had sourced external TA which had caused a budget deficit to the service. A report would be presented to the Committee in December 2022 on the 1,000 Affordable Homes Programme.

The Head of Finance stated that the Council was expected to achieve a balanced budget for the 2022/23 financial year, due to a combination of delayed expenditure and increased financial recovery within other areas of the Council. There was an underspend against the capital programme, with further opportunities for the 1,000 Affordable Homes Programme to be identified.

During the discussion, the importance of addressing and improving housing provision for the Gypsy & Traveller Community and the overall progression of the 1,000 Affordable Homes Programme, was highlighted.

RESOLVED: That

1.  The Revenue position as at the end of Quarter 2 for 2022/23, including the actions being taken or proposed to improve the position, where significant variances have been identified, be noted;

2.  The Capital position at the end of Quarter 2 be noted; and

3.  The Performance position as at Quarter 2 for 2022/23, including the actions being taken or proposed to improve the position, where significant issues have been identified, be noted.