62 LOCAL LETTINGS POLICY UPDATE PDF 46 KB
To consider the report of the Strategic Landlord Group updating the Board on the operation and review of Local Lettings Policies, and to consider their impact within the new ALMO structure.
(Report attached.)
Minutes:
The Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing presented a report from the Strategic Landlord Group updating the Board on the operation and review of Local Lettings Policies (LLPs) and their expected impact within the new ALMO structure.
Simeon Perry, Strategic Landlord Officer, Neighbourhoods and Housing, attended the meeting to present the report and respond to Members’ comments and queries.
Members heard that LLPs were permitted under the Homelessness Act 2002 provided they do not discriminate, they are consistently applied and housing need is addressed. It was explained that some LLPs had always existed in Leeds but these had never before been formalised. However, in January 2005 Executive Board had approved the creation of LLPs, following which five ALMOs had stated their preference to implement LLPs. These would continue to function following the impending ALMO restructure.
The Board were informed that the most common type of LLP related to age preference, i.e. properties with poor sound insulation are often not suitable for housing younger people due to an inability to support their lifestyle. Around 12.3% of council stock was subject to such a policy. The second most prevalent form of LLP are those in place to ensure that people from a particular areas with proven local connections are able to be re-housed in high demand areas. Three area housing offices (Garforth, Kippax and Wetherby) currently operate such a policy, equating to 3.6% of the total Council housing stock.
Members discussed the following points arising from the report:
- The problems associated with applying LLPs requiring local connections to popular areas with low housing supply;
- The view that by applying LLPs to areas, not just specific buildings, a two-tier system which is not transparent has been created;
- The very small proportion of houses in popular areas that do become available for rent – since January 2006 it was reported that only six properties in Kippax had been advertised;
- The advantages of LLPs such as their contribution towards creating stable communities by housing extended families in particular areas;
Officers reported that the Department for Communities and Local Government had recently undertaken research on choice based lettings which had examined the situation in Leeds. It was agreed that this report would be circulated for Members’ information.
The Chair thanked Officers for their attendance and contribution to the meeting.
RESOLVED – That the contents of the report be noted.