Decision details

The report of the Head of Housing Services was submitted, seeking Members’ agreement to implement an amended downsizing incentive scheme for Council tenants to improve the management of the housing stock and increase the supply of family housing to applicants on the Home Choice register.

Scrutiny Committee – Community considered the report at their meeting on 10 November 2009 and the views of members were noted.

Councillor Edwards did not support the proposal to reduce the level of cash incentive payments which he felt would deter tenants from moving into smaller properties thereby resulting in families having to remain for longer periods in over-crowded conditions.

The Portfolio Holder Housing and Community Involvement responded that it was no longer sustainable to fund overspends on the downsizing scheme from savings within the housing revenue budget as had happened in the current and previous years.  The proposal aimed to redress the balance by providing advice and support to tenants through other means including the payment of removal fees. Further research was being undertaken to explore the many reasons why tenants chose to move.

The Chair commented that the revised policy aimed to operate a balanced and fair scheme within the current budgetary constraints.

Executive resolved to adopt the amended policy document, Reducing Under-Occupation in the Council’s Housing Stock – Incentives for Downsizing.