Issue - meetings

To receive an update on progress with the Housing Regulatory Notice.

Wards affected: all

Contact: Janet Sharpe,  Interim Service Director for Homes and Neighbourhoods

RESOLVED – That the update on progress relating to the Regulatory Notice issued by the Regulator of Social Housing be noted.

(Under the provision of Council Procedure Rule 36(1), Cabinet received a representation from Councillor Taylor).

Cabinet received a report providing an update on the Council’s progress in addressing the requirements set out in the Regulatory Notice issued by the Regulator of Social Housing in March 2024. The notice followed a self-referral by the Council, which identified significant failings in fire safety, damp and mould management, water hygiene, and data governance. Cabinet noted the comprehensive improvement programme implemented in response, including the establishment of a revised governance framework, the appointment of external partners, and recruitment to strengthen delivery capacity.

Cabinet was advised of substantial progress in fire safety, with over half of the required Fire Risk Assessments completed and thousands of remedial actions identified and being addressed. In relation to damp, mould, and condensation, the backlog of cases had been significantly reduced, and the Council was on track to reach a business as usual position by August 2025. Improvements in water hygiene compliance, the commencement of a new stock condition survey programme, and the implementation of upgraded IT systems were also noted as key developments supporting regulatory compliance and service improvement. Cabinet noted that the Council aimed to have the Regulatory Notice removed by the end of the calendar year.

RESOLVED – That the update on progress relating to the Regulatory Notice issued by the Regulator of Social Housing be noted.