Issue - meetings

The Director of Regeneration & Place introduced his report outlining the Council’s Housing Development & Regeneration Investment Plan. It was noted that the Housing Development & Regeneration Investment Plan replaced the council’s previous Commercialisation Strategy and refocused capital investment into housing and regeneration projects in order to provide a commercial return to the Council.

The Committee questioned whether the Regeneration and Economic Development Team had the appropriate range of skills to ensure the delivery of the plan. The Director of Regeneration & Place assured the Committee that the team was supported by external expertise when required, for example architects and cost control consultants. The Director of Regeneration & Place agreed to hold a workshop for members to explain the skills required to implement the plan, and what measures had been put into place to ensure the skills requirements were being fulfilled.

The Committee requested further consideration be given to potential market volatility and the impact on construction costs as a result of the UK leaving the European Union; and making the most of development opportunities in Rural Service Centres, not just the Town Centre.

RESOLVED:

1.  That the Housing Development and Regeneration Investment Plan is adopted.

2.  That Officers arrange a Members workshop in the new-year to explore the potential for the long term expansion of the Plan.

3.  That the Housing Development element of the Housing Development and Regeneration Investment Plan is adopted as the renewed Business Plan for Maidstone Property Holdings Limited.

Voting: Unanimous