The Cabinet considered a report of the Deputy Chief Executive (People) on progress to date in the development of the Housing Strategy.

Resolved:

1. That the progress to date in the development of the strategy, including its identified aims and emerging actions, be endorsed.

2. That the proposals to jointly undertake consultation with the Local Plan programme, be endorsed.

3. That, following the conclusion of the consultation, the draft final strategy document and accompanying action plan be submitted to Cabinet in November 2018.

Reasons for Decision:

To jointly develop and undertake consultation on the Housing Strategy with other key programmes of work being pursued by the Council, notably Southend 2050 and the Local Plan.

The joint development will support synergy across key streams of council activity and ensure that priorities and expectations over the next few years are consistently framed.

Other options:

To pursue consultation independently of the work being undertaken with the Local Plan.  This option has been rejected given the importance of housing and the Local Plan.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: Policy & Resources Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Cox