Decision details

12.1

The report sought approval to appoint a Task and Finish Group to oversee work to develop a new Housing Strategy. Membership will be drawn from the Housing Policy Committee. The Terms of Reference of the Group were appended to the report.

12.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee:-

1.     Approve the appointment of a Task and Finish Group on the terms described in this report to oversee work to develop a new Housing Strategy

12.3

Reasons for Decision

12.3.1

The Task and Finish Group will bring together a small, focused group of members to examine key housing policy issues and provide clear advice to officers developing the strategy. Cross party representation will mean that political agreement is reached at an early stage of the process allowing the strategy to progress. This has been a significant barrier to the Strategy’s development in the past.

12.3.2

The group will feedback advice given, and progress on the work programme to the Housing Policy Committee, so the Committee can make informed decisions on the Housing Strategy.

12.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

12.4.1

An alternative would be to deliver a series of Knowledge Briefings for the Housing Policy Committee. This was rejected as it would not enable constructive debate and advice to be provided to officers.