Decision details

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Housing, in accordance with Financial Procedure Rules, seeking approval for expenditure for various projects commencing in 2011/12 within the approved HRA Capital Programme covering the Lift Refurbishments.  Approval will also be sought for some HRA capital programme virements.

All the work will directly or indirectly improve the quality of life for Council tenants.  The proposed schemes will contribute to the Council’s strategic housing objectives through improving the appearance and facilities on our estates and the wellbeing and satisfaction of our tenants in the areas where they live.

On consideration of the report of the Cabinet Member forHousing, Cabinet agreed the following:

(i)  To approve, in accordance with Financial Procedure Rules, spending of £1,010,000 on replacing the lifts at Neptune Court and Rozel Court, provision for which exists in the Housing Revenue Account Capital programme for 2011/12.

1. The lifts at Neptune Court and Rozel Court are over 40 years old and due to wear and tear they are now in need of replacement.
2. Including sums in a capital programme does not give authority to spend the money.  This is done by a separate scheme approval process.  Financial Procedure Rules require that all schemes with a total value of more than £500,000 be approved by Cabinet before they can proceed.

1. During consultation with tenants’ groups and leaseholders over the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme and in the formation of the HRA Business Plan during the option appraisal process, all parties expressed support for schemes of work at this time.
2. The alternative option of not undertaking this work would leave the properties and surrounding areas in their present condition and would not accord with the views expressed during the consultation process.