Issue - meetings

The Panel will receive a verbal update on this item from the Head of Housing.

The Head of Housing addressed the Panel regarding this item. He informed them that plans for the site were well underway and making good progress. He explained that a court order had been obtained to claim vacant possession of the site and that an alternative site had been found for seven of the most vulnerable households that were evicted.

He said that the Council had selected Elim Housing Associations as its Management & Development partner and that three separate contracts were due to be exchanged in the next few days. He added that costs had been agreed in line with original estimates.

The Cabinet Member for Homes and Planning wished to thank the Head of Housing for all his hard work on the project.

Councillor Gerry Curran asked if any enabling works had begun on site.

The Head of Housing replied that pre-mobilisation works had taken place which included levelling works, hoardings & providing a site storage facility.

Councillor Tim Warren what were the costs to the Council regarding the site.

The Head of housing replied that around £180,000 had been spent on legal, professional fees and other associated fees. In addition the Council will contribute £870k to the on-site works.

The Chair thanked him for the update on behalf of the Panel.