Decision details

The Director of Economic Development and Planning submitted a report providing committee with a general update and overview on all the various grant awards available to the housing needs service. Endorsement was also sought for the continuation of a joint management approach of the Longridge unit of temporary accommodation at 23 Wellbrow Drive through a Licence Agreement.

The Agreement ensures all maintenance issues are still the responsibility of Onward but all rent is paid direct from Ribble Valley Borough Council and therefore any void costs must be covered by the homeless service budget. The unit is essential for addressing temporary accommodation demand in Longridge and demands are such that voids are minimal.

The report outlined the various sources of grant funding available to the Council to address homelessness issues. These included:

·         Homeless Prevention Grant Winter Exceptional Top Up Allocation 21/22

·         Accommodation for Offenders – MHCLG Grant

·         Homeless Prevention Grant 20/21

·         Rough Sleeping Initiative 20/21

·         Protect and Vaccinate 2021/22 allocations

RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:

1.    Approve the continued use of 23 Wellbrow Drive, Longridge under a Licence Agreement;

2.    Agree a total budget for the property as per Appendix 1 to recommend to next Policy and Finance committee; and

3.      Note the various grant schemes available along with their limitations in terms of usage.