Decision details

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Housing and Leisure Services seeking approval for the final version of the tenancy strategy following consultation with stakeholders.  The draft strategy was approved for consultation by Cabinet with the proviso that the final proposed version return to Cabinet for approval.

(i)  to approve the proposed Tenancy Strategy; and

(ii)  to approve the proposed arrangements regarding succession of tenancy as detailed in Appendix 2.

1. Cabinet decided in March 2012 that officers should consult stakeholders in respect of the proposed tenancy strategy.  That consultation exercise has been completed and this report provides details of the results and a proposed amended strategy which takes them into account.
2. The Housing Act 1985 has been amended by the Localism Act 2011 in relation to succession and assignments of tenancies.  This report recommends that the City Council’s policy is changed to reflect these changes.

1. That the City Council uses ‘fixed-term’ tenancies in a wide range of settings.  Consultation supports Members’ view that this would not be appropriate at present.
2. That the City Council’s policy should allow for a greater range of family members to ‘succeed’ to tenancies on the death of the tenant.  Consultation with stakeholders does not support this option and it is recommended that the City Council’s policy be amended to bring it in line with statutory provisions.