Issue - meetings

Report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation.

A report from Councillor Thorpe was submitted ahead of the meeting. However, due to apologies from Councillor Thorpe, the Leader, Councillor Eamon O’Brien, gave a brief overview of the report.

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget report for 2025/26 was presented, outlining the proposed rent levels and increases for various charges. The report proposes a 2.7% increase for Council Housing, Dwelling and Garage rents, Sheltered Support, Management, Service and Heating charges, and Furnished Tenancy charges. This increase is in line with the Government’s maximum allowable increase, which is CPI 1.7% plus 1%.

The report also discussed the expected Right to Buy (RTB) sales for 2025/26, estimating 107 sales due to changes in legislation and an influx of applications before the deadline. The capital programme for 2025/26 is set at £29.522 million, which includes significant investments in existing stock maintenance and new property acquisitions.

Financial performance was highlighted, with an emphasis on maintaining a minimum working balance for the HRA to ensure financial stability. The report also covered the regulatory requirements that need to be met, including the implementation of Awaab’s Law and the necessary investment in systems and resources to comply with these obligations.

Councillor Birchmore raised a question regarding the management fees and energy efficiency improvements in the Housing Revenue Account. She sought clarification on whether the management fees were being reviewed to ensure they are not excessive and whether there are plans to improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock.

Councillor O'Brien assured the committee that efforts are being made to improve energy efficiency and manage compliance priorities. He emphasized that the management fees are being reviewed to ensure they are not excessive and that there are plans to improve the energy efficiency of the housing stock. This includes looking at ways to reduce costs and improve the overall quality of the housing provided.

It was Agreed:

·         The report be noted