100 likes | 252 Vues
Housing Options Appraisal. The Next Stage Area Committee Presentation March 2003. What’s been happening?. Housing Options Appraisal - since April 2000 Number of options to increase investment in Council housing Narrowed down to two: Council ownership and management (COAM)
E N D
Housing Options Appraisal The Next Stage Area Committee Presentation March 2003
What’s been happening? • Housing Options Appraisal - since April 2000 • Number of options to increase investment in Council housing • Narrowed down to two: • Council ownership and management (COAM) • Council ownership and arms length management (ALMO
Why consider change? • Newcastle has an investment backlog • Government’s Decent Homes Standard - target 2010 • Tenant priorities are not being met • Newcastle losing tenants in increasing numbers
The two options - COAM • Not enough funding available if the Council stays as it is
Not enough money means... • Less attractive homes and neighbourhoods • The Council would continue to lose tenants • Failure to meet Govt targets • Could result in service cuts and job losses • A negative impact on Regeneration • The Government could intervene
The ALMO • The Council could bid for extra money - £160m? • Extra funds to invest in Council homes • More attractive homes and neighbourhoods • More attractive to tenants • More sustainable business • Would meet Government targets
What is an ALMO? • Company 100% owned by the Council - no shareholders • Contract with the Council to provide housing management • Run by a Board: • Tenants, Members and Community representatives • THE ALMO IS NOT PRIVATISATION • Still Council tenants
What next? • Bid to Government - 16 May 2003 • If successful - final tenant consultation - Autumn • If tenants support the ALMO - seek Govt approval to set it up • April 2004 - ALMO start date
However… • Intense competition for extra ALMO money • Council must demonstrate tenant support • ALMO must deliver good services • Minimum 2 Stars in a Best Value Inspection
Talking with Tenants 2003 • Over February and March: • Leaflet to every tenant • More detailed info available • 50 Roadshows across the City • Sheltered schemes • Presentations to tenants groups, Area and Ward committees • Events for communities of identity and interest • Freephone helpline