In addition to the standard performance information the report recommended the implementation of a modernisation programme of the Housing department over the next 12 months. The modernisation programme – Getting our house in order - will be extensive and involve an improvement plan for each service area (excluding Sheltered Housing).  Staff will be attending workshops in December 2014 to discuss the programme. Regular updates will be provided in future Committee meetings.

The report also updated Committee on the final stage of the Repairs review, to review the Office/client side of the Repairs team and provide a permanent solution for the Property Manager role. It is proposed to recruit a Property Manager on a 12 month fixed contract; while we complete the modernisation programme.  To mitigate the interim risk an internal 6 /12 fixed term, Team Leader secondment is recommended.  This will be funded from savings elsewhere in the Property team structure.

Officers will research opportunities for shared services with other local authorities.  It was agreed that Thurrock Council will provide assistance with the repairs, leasehold and caretaker services review as they had recently successfully being through a transformation programme

The performance update was supplemented with information on complaints as requested by Cllr Ross Carter.

Members asked for a review of the temporary accommodation KPI and a breakdown the different reasons/household composition be reported to the next Housing and Health Committee.

A  motion was MOVED by Cllr Carter and SECONDED by Cllr Mrs Davies to approve the recommendation set out in the report, subject to an amendment to 2.5

2.5       That the Committee notes the impact of the recommendations 2.4 &            2.5 2.2 & 2.3 is a saving to the HRS of £12,500 p.a.

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY to:

2.1         The Committee is asked to monitor the performance information submitted within the report.

2.2      The Committee is requested to note the implementation of the housing modernisation programme and the future direction of travel.

            That the committee approves the deletion of a vacant surveyor post.

2.3      The Committee approves the commissioning of Thurrock Council to assist with reviews of Repairs, leasehold management and caretaking.

2.4      That Committee grants approval to increase the responsibilities in an existing Property team role to create a Secondment (6/12 month) opportunity for a Team Leader post for internal recruitment.

2.5      That the Committee notes the impact of recommendations 2.2 & 2.3 is a saving on the HRA of £12,500 p.a.

2.6      That the Committee approves officers to explore possible opportunities with other neighbouring local authorities to work to develop its Property team and achieve a cost effective service delivery.