The Committee considered a report setting out progress on the Local Authority New Build Programme and seeking approval for revised budget forecasts and spend approvals relating to upcoming schemes.

Resolved –

(1)       That progression to onsite construction for the delivery of the LANB schemes at Hexham Road, Amethyst Lane and Dwyer Road be approved with the revised budget forecasts and associated spend approvals for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme in respect of the main works contracts for the three schemes as set out in the report;

(2)       That the revised budget forecasts and associated spend approvals for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme schemes in relation to forthcoming LANB schemes at Battle Street (PCSA), Dee Park (Phase 3 to planning approval) and LANB post 2026 feasibility work be approved as set out in the report;

(3)       That the proposed purchase of 16 units under the LANB Phase 4 acquisitions programme, as set out in the report, be approved;

(4)       That the Executive Director of Communities and Adult Social Care, in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Lead Councillor for Housing, be authorised to bid for Homes England grant funding for all appropriate schemes within the LANB programme and to approve details of the bids;

(5)       That the proposed Local Authority Housing Fund Round 3 purchases and the acquisitions programme be approved;

(6)       That the Executive Director of Communities and Adult Social Care, in consultation with the Director of Finance, the Assistant Director for Procurement and the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services, be authorised to enter into contract with relevant parties to enable delivery of the schemes listed at paragraph 2.1 of the report;

(7)       That the latest position on Dee Park be noted and that the Executive Director of Communities and Adult Social Care, in consultation with the Director of Finance, be authorised to procure an appropriate multi-disciplinary team as set out in the report;

(8)       That it be noted that in order to deliver the remaining planned LANB schemes business cases would be brought forward for consideration as part of the 2026/27 Budget and 2026/27-2028/29 Medium Term Financial Strategy process;

(9)       That the Executive Director of Communities and Adult Social Care, in consultation with the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services, be authorised to enter into collateral warranties as required on all phases of the LANB programme.