Decision details

The Cabinet Member for Housing Services presented a report regarding the development of a new Housing Strategy, which will replace the existing 2021 – 2025 version. This report sought Cabinet approval to commence a 12-week public consultation on the draft strategy, after which the final version would come back to Cabinet for approval.

In response to Members' questions, it was noted that feedback on the management of previous consultations would be welcomed. Members were advised that arc4, the organisation responsible for collating the evidence used to inform the strategy, had been operating for many years. It was further noted that representations received during the consultation process would be taken into account in the final version of the strategy, which would be presented to Cabinet for approval. Prior to this, the strategy could be considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee should it wish to do so.

Decision:

Cabinet:

1. Noted the work to date on developing the draft Housing Strategy which was attached at Appendix 1;
2. Approved that formal public consultation for a period of twelve weeks should be undertaken to gather views and opinions on the draft Housing Strategy, ensuring that these are duly considered before a final version is prepared for Cabinet approval;
3. Delegated authority to the Director of Housing to make any non-material amendments to the draft strategy, prior to consultation if required; and
4. Noted that following consultation, a final proposed Housing Strategy and delivery plan will be submitted to Cabinet for approval and adoption. The accompanying report will summarise the outcome of the public consultation.

Reasons for the decision:

• Public consultation on a housing strategy constitutes a formal decision under the Council’s governance arrangements and must therefore be authorised by the Cabinet. This ensures compliance with the principles of good governance, openness, and accountability.
• To ensure that the draft Housing Strategy is subject to meaningful engagement while proposals remain at a formative stage, in accordance with the Gunning Principles.
• Consulting residents and stakeholders, including those with protected characteristics, enables the Council to gather valuable feedback, local intelligence, practical expertise, potential equality impacts/mitigation, and fosters shared commitment to implementation.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

Retain the existing Housing Strategy to deliver Bury’s housing priorities and guide inclusive growth and investment in the borough - This option has been rejected because the existing Housing Strategy is now outdated due to changes in national policy, service delivery arrangements and the findings of a statutory review of housing needs undertaken in November 2025.