Decision details
23 Grosvenor Place, Bath: Operating Arrangements (WL)
Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Built Environment, Housing and Sustainable Development
Decision status: Approved
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: Yes
Purpose:
In March 2020, 23 Grosvenor Place was
repurposed as part of the Council’s response to the
government’s “Everyone In” homelessness directive
during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the
receipt of £1.2 million from the government, the building was
extensively refurbished to provide 20 units of high-quality,
self-contained accommodation for individuals transitioning from
rough sleeping to a more stable living situation. Since April 2020,
Julian House has been responsible for housing management and
personal support, collecting and holding all rental income. With
the refurbishment now complete, a more streamlined and
cost-effective operational strategy is required. It is therefore
proposed to bring the housing management and support functions
in-house.
Decision:
(1) To transfer, and bring inhouse, the housing management and support arrangement currently provided by Julian House.
(2) To delegate all operational decisions required to progress this decision to the Head of Housing.
Reasons for the decision:
Since the initial business case in 2020, and subsequent unsuccessful procurement activities, the Council’s housing management and support capacity has significantly developed, particularly through the establishment of B&NES Homes, the Council’s in-house Registered Provider. B&NES Homes now provides a full housing management and support service to 33 units of accommodation, of which 21 units are supported housing units. It is proposed to leverage this existing capability to manage and support the 23 Grosvenor Place supported housing scheme directly.
Alternative options considered:
Do Nothing: Whilst the current arrangement was appropriate at the time the Council needs a clearer strategic direction for the operation and management of the scheme, which requires a more formal basis that can operate within agreed financial parameters.
Procure separate management & support contract: While it is possible to further review and amend this contract, it is unlikely to end in a successfully let contract, given experience. However, more importantly, the in-house management and support option now provides a better option as detailed above.
Publication date: 15/10/2024
Date of decision: 15/10/2024
Effective from: 23/10/2024
Accompanying Documents:
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