Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides an update on the development of city centre housing including investment in new Build to Rent (BTR) housing in the city. The report suggests a policy approach which continues to secure the provision of affordable housing whilst recognising the funding model on which BTR development is predicated - focused in the city centre in proximity to employment and transport infrastructure.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided an update on the development of city centre housing provision, highlighted the important role to be played by the city centre in providing a mixed and vibrant residential community, whilst also noting the city centre’s contribution towards the delivery of the city’s housing targets. In addition, the report proposed an approach which looked to encourage and help secure the development of ‘Build to Rent’ housing, whilst also securing resources for investment in city centre affordable housing provision.

In considering the submitted report, Members reiterated the key role played by the city centre in the provision of accommodation, the delivery of affordable housing provision and in the achievement of the city’s housing targets. In addition, Members highlighted the need to continue to progress the proposals as outlined within the submitted report, and linked to this, noted the work being undertaken with Department for Communities and Local Government on such matters, whilst also highlighting how the provision of high quality affordable housing was integral to the successful development of mixed residential communities.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the approach, as set out within the submitted report, regarding the development of mixed residential communities in the city centre and the role this plays in housing growth, be approved;

(b)  That endorsement be given to an approach which recognises that the acceptance of commuted sums from ‘Build to Rent’ schemes may be appropriate and justified in accordance with Core strategy Policy H5;

(c)  That the proposed investment of commuted sums for affordable housing being reinvested in schemes within the boundary identified in Appendix 1 to the submitted report, be approved, which will be via a range of measures, as identified in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.13 of the submitted report and which is in line with the strategic approach towards developing mixed communities in Leeds City Centre, also as set out within the submitted report.