Agenda Document Pack - Housing and Technical Resources Committee - 26/02/2025
South Lanarkshire Council · 26 February 2025
Back to Housing and Technical Resources Committee — 26 February 2025 and its agenda
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Council Offices, Almada Street Hamilton, ML3 0AA Tuesday, 18 February 2025 Dear Councillor Housing and Technical Resources Committee The Members listed below are requested to attend a meeting of the above Committee to be held as follows:- Date: Wednesday, 26 February 2025 Time: 10:00 Venue: Hybrid - Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton, ML3 0AA The business to be considered at the meeting is listed overleaf. Yours sincerely Paul Manning Chief Executive Members Davie McLachlan (Chair), Margaret Cowie (Depute Chair), Joe Fagan (ex officio), Walter Brogan, Archie Buchanan, Mathew Buchanan, Janine Calikes, Gerry Convery, Margaret Cooper, Andrea Cowan, Maureen Devlin, Colin Dewar, Allan Falconer, Grant Ferguson, Alistair Fulton, Ross Gowland, Geri Gray, Ross Lambie, Martin Lennon, Richard Lockhart, Julia Marrs, Ian McAllan, Kenny McCreary, Norman Rae, David Shearer, Kirsty Williams Substitutes Robert Brown, Poppy Corbett, Monique Equi, Gladys Ferguson-Miller, Elise Frame, Martin Hose, Cal Johnston-Dempsey, Susan Kerr, Eileen Logan, Richard Nelson, Helen Toner, Margaret B Walker, David Watson 1
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BUSINESS 1 Declaration of Interests 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting Minutes of the meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee held on 27 November 2024 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 5 - 18 3 Minutes of Special Meeting Minutes of the special meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee held on 22 January 2025 submitted for approval as a correct record. (Copy attached) 19 - 22 Monitoring Item(s) 4 Revenue Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 29 January 2025 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 23 - 26 5 Revenue Budget Monitoring 20242025 - Housing and Technical Resources (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 29 January 2025 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 27 - 32 6 Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Joint report dated 29 January 2025 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 33 - 36 7 Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) Joint report dated 28 January 2025 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 37 - 40 8 Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – October to December 2024 Joint report dated 31 January 2025 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 41 - 46 Item(s) for Decision 9 Housing Allocation Policy – Local Letting Plans 2025-2026 Report dated 23 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 47 - 54 10 Homeless Pressures Update Report dated 6 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 55 - 72 2
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11 South Lanarkshire Council Housing Repairs Policy Report dated 13 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 73 - 88 12 CAT Lease - Hollandbush Golf Course and Clubhouse – Community Asset Transfer to Hollandbush Golf Club Report dated 20 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 89 - 94 13 Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion, East Kilbride – Community Asset Transfer to EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd Report dated 20 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 95 - 100 14 Raploch Pitches and Pavilion – Community Asset Transfer to Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club Report dated 20 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 101 - 106 15 Eastfield Community Hall Community Asset Transfer to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee Report dated 20 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 107 - 112 Item(s) for Noting 16 Delegated Authority Report – Update Report dated 14 January 2025 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources). (Copy attached) 113 - 116 Urgent Business 17 Urgent Business Any other items of business which the Chair decides are urgent. For further information, please contact:- Clerk Name: Lynne Hamilton Clerk Telephone: 07385 370044 Clerk Email: lynn.hamilton2@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 3
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HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE Minutes of meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 27 November 2024 Chair: Councillor Davie McLachlan Councillors Present: Councillor Walter Brogan, Councillor Archie Buchanan, Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie (Depute), Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Cal Johnston-Dempsey (substitute for Councillor Janine Calikes), Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Martin Lennon, Councillor Eileen Logan (substitute for Councillor Kirsty Williams), Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Ian McAllan, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor Norman Rae, Councillor David Shearer, Councillor Helen Toner (substitute for Councillor Geri Gray) Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Janine Calikes, Councillor Joe Fagan (ex officio), Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Kirsty Williams Attending: Finance and Corporate Resources G Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy); J Davitt, Public Relations Team Leader; L Hamilton, Administration Officer; E A McGonigle, Administration Adviser; D McMillan, Finance Adviser; E McPake, Human Resources Business Manager; L Wyllie, Administration Assistant Housing and Technical Resources S Gibson, Executive Director; S Egan, Head of Housing Services; C Jardine, Head of Property Services; G McParland, Property Manager (Assets and Estates); C Mitchell, Strategy and Support Manager; J Read, Strategy and Policy Adviser 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the meeting of the Housing and Technical Resources Committee held on 18 September 2024 were submitted for approval as a correct record. The Committee decided: that the minutes be approved as a correct record 3 Revenue Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources - (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) A joint report dated 30 October 2024 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted advising of the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April to 4 October 2024 and providing a forecast for the year to 31 March 2025 for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA). 2 5
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A Service Analysis Statement, which outlined key highlights by Service for the Resource, was provided at Appendix A to the report. The detailed financial position, with variance explanations by budget category, was provided in appendices B to D of the report. As at 4 October 2024, the projected outturn position for the Resource was a breakeven position. Virements were proposed to realign budgets and those were detailed in appendices C and D to the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the forecast to 31 March 2025 of a breakeven position on the Housing and Technical Resources’ Revenue budget (excl HRA), as detailed in Appendix A to the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 5)] Councillor Cooper joined the meeting during this item of business 4 Revenue Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) A joint report dated 30 October 2024 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted advising of the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April to 4 October 2024 and providing a forecast for the year to 31 March 2025 for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA). As at 4 October 2024, there was a forecast breakeven position against the budget, as detailed in Appendix A to the report. Virements were proposed to realign budgets and those were detailed in Appendix A to the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the forecast to 31 March 2025 of a breakeven position on Housing and Technical Resources’ (HRA) revenue budget, as detailed in Appendix A of the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 6)] 5 Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) A joint report dated 30 October 2024 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) for the period 1 April to 4 October 2024. 6
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The revised budget of £10.629 million was based on the overall Capital Programme for 2024/2025 approved by the Executive Committee on 13 November 2024. Appendix A to the report detailed a forecast for the financial year of £10.629 million. Actual expenditure to 4 October 2024 was £0.935 million. The Committee decided: that the Housing and Technical Resources’ capital programme of £10.629 million, and forecast expenditure of £10.629 million, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 10) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 13 November 2024 (Paragraph 4)] 6 Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) A joint report dated 30 October 2024 by the Executive Directors (Finance and Corporate Resources) and (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted advising on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) for the period 1 April to 4 October 2024. The Housing Capital Programme for 2024/2025 was £77.248 million, as detailed at Appendix A to the report. This budget was based on the original programme approved by the Council in February 2024, budget carried forward from financial year 2023/2024 and the Scottish Government Affordable Housing grant available for 2024/2025. It also included the allocation of £1.724 million in Resource Planning Assumption (RPA) for 2024/2025. The forecast for 2024/2025 from Housing and Technical Resources had identified an outturn of £72.106 million for the year, an underspend of £5.142 million. This was a result of delays in site starts at 2 locations and the fact that the average purchase price for properties purchased through the Market Purchase Scheme had reduced. Opportunities continued to be explored to utilise the uncommitted £5.142 million in the current programme. Any Council funding not utilised would be carried forward into the next financial year. The Committee decided: that the revised Housing and Technical Resources’ (HRA) capital programme of £77.248 million, and expenditure to 4 October 2024 of £22.439 million, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 9)] 7 Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – July to September 2024 A joint report dated 28 October 2024 by the Executive Directors (Housing and Technical Resources) and (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on the following employee information for Housing and Technical Resources for July to September 2024:- attendance statistics occupational health statistics accident/incident statistics discipline, grievance and Dignity at Work cases analysis of leavers and exit interviews Staffing Watch as at 14 September 2024 7
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The Committee decided: that the report be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 11)] 8 Housing and Technical Resource Plan - Quarter 2 Progress Report 2024/2025 A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the Housing and Technical Resource Plan Quarter 2 Progress Report for 2024/2025 for the period 1 April to 30 September 2024. The Resource Plan measures were rated using a traffic light system of red, amber, or green as well as blue (BRAG), which indicated that an action had been completed. Details were provided on:- progress against all Resource Plan measures contained in the Quarter 2 Progress Report 2024/2025, as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report key achievements made by the Resource to date, as detailed in Section 5.3 of the report areas for improvement and associated management actions, as detailed in Section 5.4 of the report the status of those measures identified as ‘report later’ at Quarter 4 2023/2024, as detailed at Appendix 3 to the report An officer responded to members’ questions in relation to:- the supports available to young people being offered tenancies whether there had been a stabilisation in the rising rates of homelessness The Committee decided: (1) that the Housing and Technical Resource Plan Quarter 2 Progress Report 2024/2025, as summarised at Section 5.2 and detailed in Appendix 2 of the report, be noted; (2) that the key achievements made by the Resource to date, as detailed in Section 5.3 of the report, be noted; (3) that the areas for improvement and associated management actions, as detailed in Section 5.4 of the report, be noted; and (4) that the additional scrutiny of reporting the updated status of those measures identified as ‘report later’ at Quarter 4 2023/2024, as detailed in Section 5.5 and at Appendix 3 to the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 19 June 2024 (Paragraph 5)] 9 Policy and Strategy Review Schedule A report dated 8 October 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted requesting approval for the Policy and Strategy Review Schedule for Housing and Technical Resources. 8
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The Policy and Strategy Review Schedule was established in 2011 with regular updates provided, most recently on 8 November 2023. It assisted annual service planning by providing a timeframe for the formal review of all key housing policies and strategies. It informed the development of the annual work plan for customer involvement and provided a basis for the Council to ensure that its statutory obligations were delivered. The proposed Schedule reflected changes in the local and national policy context and was attached as Appendix 1 to the report. It set out:- details of housing policies and strategies the frequency of reviews when the reviews were next scheduled to take place As part of the policy and strategy review process, associated procedures, and protocols, which supported the delivery of services, were also considered, and reviewed as appropriate. This ensured that scope for service improvements was also considered as part of the review process. The scope of the policy and strategy areas covered by the Schedule was consistent with the key service areas identified by the Scottish Housing Regulator’s regulatory framework, as detailed in the report. In addition, the review also incorporated key housing and other strategies which the Resource had lead responsibility for within the Council. The Schedule would inform the next round of Resource and Service Plans for 2025/2026 and would be used to establish a joint programme for customer engagement. The proposed frequency of review was considered appropriate to the individual policy or strategy area. An updated Schedule would be presented to this Committee on an annual basis which would advise of progress and any amendments to the Schedule. The Committee would continue to be fully updated in relation to the development of the specific policies and strategies contained within the Schedule. The Committee decided: (1) that the Policy and Strategy Review Schedule, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be approved; and (2) that the outcome of policy and strategy reviews be reported to future Committees, in line with the Schedule. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 9)] 10 South Lanarkshire Council's Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2025 to 2030 A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted:- requesting approval for South Lanarkshire Council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025 to 2030 ♦ providing an update on additional considerations given as part of the development of South Lanarkshire Council’s SHIP 2025 to 2030 9
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The SHIP was a rolling 5-year plan, the purpose of which was to set out affordable housing development priorities within a local authority area, to guide the way in which Scottish Government funding and other resources were allocated to achieve current South Lanarkshire Local Housing Strategy 2022 to 2027 outcomes. Information was provided on:- the development of the SHIP 2025 to 2030 the content and key considerations of the SHIP 2025 to 2030, which was attached as Appendix 1 to the report resource planning assumptions for 2024/2025 the connection of the SHIP to progressive housing through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme the significance of town centre regeneration and the capacity of potential affordable housing alternative procurement routes Officers responded to members’ questions in relation to:- the consideration of the inclusion of modular housing within the SHIP the inclusion of the more remote rural areas, with the Head of Housing Services undertaking to liaise with Planning Services in relation to planning fees the timescales for the Ball Green site in Strathaven The Committee decided: (1) that the Council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025 to 2030, as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report, be approved for publication and submission to the Scottish Government; and (2) that the key considerations made as part of the development of the Council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025 to 2030 be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 8 May 2024 (Paragraph 11)] 11 Westwood Community Hall, Riverton Drive, East Kilbride - Lease to Westwood Community Centre A report dated 10 October 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted advising of a request for a concessionary lease of Westwood Community Hall to Westwood Community Centre. Westwood Community Hall was managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) and, following a review of its business plan, the SLLC Board announced that it could not sustain service delivery for the facility and it would be returned to the Council. Information was provided on:- the terms of the lease request the property requested, as shown on the plan attached as an appendix to the report the purpose of Westwood Community Centre the proposed use of the hall the assessment of the application and proposed terms and conditions of the lease of Westwood Community Hall to Westwood Community Centre 10
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The Committee decided: (1) that the subjects at Westwood Community Hall, Riverton Drive, East Kilbride be leased to Westwood Community Centre, subject to the terms and conditions detailed in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the lease and to enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council. 12 Acquisition of 2 Former Church Sites at Reid Street and Backmuir Road, Hamilton from JR Group A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted requesting approval to acquire 2 former church sites at Backmuir Road and Reid Street, Hamilton from the JR Group on which 48 affordable housing properties would be constructed by the JR Group for inclusion in the Council’s housing stock. Following the assessment of the JR Group’s proposals and having entered into negotiations with JR Group to progress those proposals to provide new affordable homes, it was proposed to acquire the former 2 church sites on which the JR Group would construct 48 affordable housing properties, subject to the following principal conditions:- the Council would acquire title to the 2 former church sites in exchange for the land payments (each site being valued at £360,000) the balance for each property constructed would then be paid on completion of the following stages – floor slab, wind and watertight, and completion the Council would receive a third-party warranty covering defects and structure for a period of no less than 10 years each party would be responsible for their own legal fees Approval for the award of a works contract to the JR Group for the construction of the 48 affordable housing properties on the 2 former church sites would be secured in accordance with the requirements of the Council’s Standing Orders on Contracts. Information was provided on:- the actions the Council had taken to develop housing across South Lanarkshire and meet its affordable housing supply target, which aimed to deliver an additional 1,300 homes by March 2027 the publication of a Prior Information Notice (PIN) which sought proposals from parties that had access to land for residential development and who would be interested in delivering affordable housing for the Council the proposal from the JR Group through the PIN exercise for 2 former church sites of land at Reid Street and Backmuir Road, Hamilton Officers responded to members’ questions in relation to:- the higher cost of this project in relation to other projects the lack of 3 and 4 bedroom houses on the site 11
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The Committee decided: (1) that the acquisition of the 2 former church sites at Backmuir Road and Reid Street, Hamilton from the JR Group, and the funding package for the acquisition of those sites as well as the construction by JR Group on those sites of 48 affordable homes for a total price of £11,850,000 (which included the cost of land), be approved; (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters pertaining to those transactions and to enter into all necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council; and (3) to note that the award of a negotiated works contracts to the JR Group for the construction of the 48 affordable housing units on the 2 former church sites would be secured in accordance with Council’s Standing Orders on Contracts. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 30 November 2022 (Paragraph 7)] 13 Acquisition of Houses at Landsdale, Newhouse Road, East Kilbride (EK CGA Site D) - Section 75 Planning Reference PL/09/0218 A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted requesting approval to acquire 56 homes at the Bellway Landsdale Development, Newhouse Road, East Kilbride from Bellway Homes, for inclusion in the Council’s housing stock in fulfilment of the planning obligations associated with the development of the residential sites. It was proposed to acquire 56 completed houses from Bellway Homes, subject to the following principal conditions:- the Council would pay a land payment of £1.14 million prior to works commencing and take ownership of the site the balance for each unit would then be paid in the following stages – floor slab, wind and watertight, and completion the Council would receive a third-party warranty covering defects and structure for a period of no less than 10 years each party would be responsible for their own legal fees Information was provided on:- the actions the Council had taken to develop housing across South Lanarkshire and meet its affordable housing supply target, which aimed to deliver an additional 1,300 homes by March 2027 the discussions entered into by the Council with Bellway Homes to fulfil the planning obligations for new affordable homes The Head of Property Services responded to a member’s question in relation to the accessibility of the properties. The Committee decided: (1) that the acquisition of 56 completed affordable homes from Bellway Homes for a total price of £11,360,000 (which included the cost of land), to fulfil the planning obligations associated with the residential development of the sites, be approved; and 12
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(2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) be given delegated authority to authorise the transactions and instruct Legal Services to conclude transactions, in the appropriate manner and in the best interests of the Council, with each individual transaction being in excess of the current £100,000 acquisition limit under the existing delegated powers arrangements. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 30 November 2022 (Paragraph 7)] 14 Acquisition of Land and Construction of Properties at Dale Avenue, Cambuslang - Section 75 Planning Reference PL/21/1901 A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted requesting approval to acquire an area of land at Dale Avenue, Cambuslang from Dawn Homes, on which 17 affordable housing properties would be constructed by Dawn Homes, for inclusion in the Council’s housing stock in fulfilment of the planning obligations associated with the development of this residential site. It was proposed to acquire the land on which Dawn Homes would construct 17 affordable homes, subject to the following principal conditions:- the Council would acquire title to the land in exchange for the land payment (the site being valued, and payment determined in line with the planning obligations in terms of the Section 75 Agreement to acquire at 50% market value at £170,000) the balance for each property constructed would then be paid in the following stages – floor slab, wind and watertight, and completion the Council would receive a third-party warranty covering defects and structure for a period of no less than 10 years each party would be responsible for their own legal fees Information was provided on:- the actions the Council had taken to develop housing across South Lanarkshire and meet its affordable housing supply target, which aimed to deliver an additional 1,300 homes by March 2027 the discussions entered into by the Council with Dawn Homes to fulfil the planning obligations in terms of the Section 75 Agreement, as outlined in the report The Head of Property Services responded to a member’s question in relation to the building warranty standard. The Committee decided: (1) that the acquisition of the area of land at Dale Avenue, Cambuslang from Dawn Homes, and the funding package for the acquisition of that land and construction by Dawn Homes on that area of land of 17 affordable homes for a total price of £3.5 million (which included the cost of land), to fulfil the planning obligations associated with the residential development previously entered into, be approved; (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters pertaining to those transactions and to enter into all necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council; and 13
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(3) to note the award of a negotiated works contract to Dawn Homes for the construction of the 17 affordable housing units on the land to be acquired, in accordance with the Council’s Standing Orders on Contracts. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 8) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 30 November 2022 (Paragraph 7)] In terms of Standing Order No 14, the Chair adjourned the meeting at 11.00am and reconvened at 11.05am 15 Delegated Authority Report – Update A report dated 17 October 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on transactions processed by Property Services during Quarter 2 of 2024/2025. The Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), under delegated powers, had authority to deal with various transactions including:- leases up to the value of £50,000 per annum and a maximum period of 20 years rent reviews up to an increase of £20,000 per annum disposals up to a value of £200,000 acquisitions up to a value of £200,000 Details of the transactions undertaken during Quarter 2, as contained in Appendix 1 to the report, were as follows:- Quarter 2 2024/2025: Number of transactions 84 Total value of lease transactions £187,174 per annum Total value of capital transactions £3,192,271 Total number of miscellaneous transactions 3 In addition, at the Council meeting on 27 March 2024, temporary authority had been granted to the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in conjunction with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, to enter into short-term lease arrangements for the properties affected by the budget setting decisions made by the Council and South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture on 21 February and 28 February 2024, respectively. This authority ran from 19 June to 18 September 2024 and 5 leases had been completed during this period for the following properties:- ♦ Carstairs Junction Hall ♦ Pettinain Hall ♦ Coulter Hall ♦ Crossford Hall ♦ Thankerton Hall The Committee decided: (1) that the transactions processed by delegated authority by Property Services during Quarter 2 of 2024/2025 be noted; and (2) that the short-term leases, as detailed in the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 18 September 2024 (Paragraph 19) and Minutes of the South Lanarkshire Council of 27 March 2024 (Paragraph 6)] 14
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16 Annual Report on the Charter (ARC) 2023/2024 A report dated 5 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an update on:- the Scottish Social Housing Charter and the requirement to produce an Annual Report on the Charter (ARC) covering performance during 2023/2024 arrangements to monitor and report on Charter progress throughout 2024/2025 The Charter contained 32 measures of performance which reflected a mixture of qualitative, survey-based information, as well as a range of efficiency and effectiveness measures. To comply with the requirements set out by the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR), the Resource submitted its 2023/2024 performance information to the Regulator on 23 May 2024. The Charter report was consistent with those of previous years and a summary, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, provided further details on each indicator together with a comparison against the Scottish average for all social landlords, and that of the other Scottish local authority landlords. There were 5 indicators where performance had improved in the last year, details of which were included in the report, along with a summary of the position and context in relation to 3 indicators where performance had reduced. The Resource Plan 2024/2025, which included the majority of the Charter indicators, would continue to be monitored and reported as part of the 6-monthly update to this Committee. The Committee decided: (1) that the Council’s reported performance and contextual information for the Scottish Social Housing Charter and comparisons with other landlords, as detailed at Appendix 1 to the report, be noted; and (2) that the future use of the Charter for ongoing scrutiny by the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR), tenants and other service users, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 13)] 17 Scottish Housing Regulator – Annual Return on the Scottish Social Charter – A Consultation A report dated 5 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on the Council’s response to the consultation on the Annual Return on the Scottish Social Charter which had been submitted to the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) in advance of the set timescale of 8 November 2024. The report outlined the focus of the consultation and Council response, which was also detailed in Appendix 1 to the report. The SHR had been established in 2011 as an independent body directly accountable to the Scottish Government to regulate registered social landlords (RSLs) and local authority housing and homelessness services. The SHR did this by assessing and reporting on social landlords’ delivery of services, RSLs’ financial well-being and standards of governance and, where necessary, the SHR would intervene to secure improvements. During 2023, the SHR consulted on the future of social housing regulation in Scotland and published their revised framework in February 2024. 15
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During a consultation on the revised Regulatory Framework, the SHR noted proposals to develop and introduce specific indicators on tenant and resident safety within the Annual Report on the Charter (ARC). It was also proposed to develop appropriate monitoring of the effectiveness of landlords’ approach to managing reports and instances of damp and mould. Views were also sought on the continuing appropriateness of existing ARC indicators. After reviewing feedback, the SHR would aim to publish final versions of the Charter indicators in a revised Technical Guidance and a list of FAQs by January 2025. This would allow landlords to start collecting the data from 1 April 2025. The Committee decided: that the Council’s response to the Scottish Housing Regulator’s consultation on the Annual Return on the Scottish Social Charter be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 13)] 18 Notification of Contracts Awarded - 1 March to 30 September 2024 A report dated 22 October 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted on contracts awarded by Housing and Technical Resources, valued in excess of £50,000, in the period 1 March to 30 September 2024. In terms of Standing Order No 21.8 of the Council’s Standing Orders on Contracts, Resources were required to notify the relevant committee of contracts awarded above the sum of £50,000. Details of the contracts awarded or extended were provided in the appendices to the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the details of the contracts awarded, as detailed in Appendix A to the report, be noted; and (2) that details of the contracts extended, as detailed in Appendix B to the report, be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 24 April 2024 (Paragraph 17)] 19 Update of the Housing and Technical Resources' Risk Register and Risk Control Plan A report dated 5 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an update on the Housing and Technical Resources’ Risk Register and Risk Control Actions. Housing and Technical Resources had followed Council guidance in developing, monitoring, and updating its Risk Register on an ongoing basis. The Register had been developed to ensure that the Resource:- was fully aware of the top risks was able to prioritise those risks had controls in place to eliminate or minimise the impact of the risk 16
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The risks were scored in accordance with the Council’s scoring mechanism based on likelihood and impact of risk. This resulted in risks being scored between 1 to 25 (low to very high). Risks were scored on their inherent risk (risk if nothing was done), and their residual risk (risk after applying controls). The Risk Register for the Resource had been developed and was monitored on an ongoing basis by the Resource Risk Management Group to add new risks and to review the score of existing risks. The main changes to the Risk Register, including 4 new risks, were summarised in the report. Details of all risks which had scored very high and high were provided in Appendix 1 to the report. Risks evaluated as being medium or low risk would be monitored to ensure that they continued to be adequately managed. Appendix 2 to the report provided a comparison of risk scores for 2023 and 2024. This appendix also detailed changes in risk descriptions. Officers responded to a member’s question in relation to encouraging the uptake of common buildings insurance and undertook to look at this as part of the factoring review that was currently taking place. The Committee decided: that the contents of the Resource Risk Register be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 14)] 20 Annual Report - Mainstreaming Equality and Diversity within Housing and Technical Resources A report dated 5 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted providing an overview of progress made in relation to mainstreaming equalities within Housing and Technical Resources during 2023/2024 and highlighting the key actions being progressed during 2024/2025. The Housing and Technical Resources’ Equality and Diversity Co-ordination Group continued to progress the Equality and Diversity work plan and supported a consistent approach to mainstreaming equality and diversity across the Resource. Details were provided on progress made in meeting those commitments during 2023/2024 and the key priorities for 2024/2025 were outlined. The Committee decided: that the progress made during 2023/2024 and key actions for 2024/2025 in relation to mainstreaming equalities be noted. [Reference: Minutes of 8 November 2023 (Paragraph 12) and Minutes of the Executive Committee of 2 October 2024 (Paragraph 10) and 21 June 2023 (Paragraph 11)] 21 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 17
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22 Exclusion of Press and Public The Committee decided: that, in terms of Section 50A(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that it was likely that there would be disclosure of exempt information in terms of Paragraph 9 of Part I of Schedule 7A of the Act. 23 Disposal of Land at Stewartfield Way, East Kilbride A report dated 6 November 2024 by the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) was submitted requesting approval for the disposal of land extending to 34.59 hectares, or thereby, at Stewartfield Way, East Kilbride, currently held on a long lease. Information was provided on the proposal for the disposal of the land, subject to the principal conditions detailed in the report. The Committee decided: (1) that the site at Stewartfield Way, East Kilbride, extending to 34.59 hectares, or thereby, be disposed of and in terms of the principal conditions detailed in the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in consultation with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all other matters pertaining to the disposal of the site and to enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which were in the best interests of the Council. 18
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HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE Minutes of the special meeting held via Confero and in Committee Room 1, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton on 22 January 2025 Chair: Councillor Davie McLachlan Councillors Present: Councillor Walter Brogan, Councillor Archie Buchanan, Councillor Mathew Buchanan, Councillor Janine Calikes, Councillor Gerry Convery, Councillor Andrea Cowan, Councillor Margaret Cowie (Depute), Councillor Maureen Devlin, Councillor Colin Dewar, Councillor Allan Falconer, Councillor Grant Ferguson, Councillor Alistair Fulton, Councillor Ross Gowland, Councillor Geri Gray, Councillor Ross Lambie, Councillor Richard Lockhart, Councillor Julia Marrs, Councillor Ian McAllan, Councillor Kenny McCreary, Councillor Norman Rae, Councillor David Shearer, Councillor Kirsty Williams Councillors' Apologies: Councillor Margaret Cooper, Councillor Joe Fagan (ex officio), Councillor Martin Lennon Attending: Finance and Corporate Resources G Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy); K McLeod, Administration Assistant; S McLeod, Administration Officer; D McMillan, Finance Adviser Housing and Technical Resources S Gibson, Executive Director; S Egan, Head of Housing Services Chair’s Opening Remarks The Chair thanked tenant representatives on the Budget Scrutiny Group and the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group for the feedback they had provided and for their assistance in ensuring that tenants’ views had been considered in relation to the development of the Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget for 2025/2026. 1 Declaration of Interests No interests were declared. 2 Housing Revenue and Capital Account Budget 2025/2026 A joint report dated 24 December 2024 by the Executive Directors (Housing and Technical Resources) and (Finance and Corporate Resources) was submitted on:- the revenue estimate proposals for the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for 2025/2026 which had been prepared in line with the 30-year Business Plan the 2025/2026 Housing Capital Programme totalling £85.948 million The HRA revenue budget for 2025/2026 had been prepared in line with the 30-year HRA Business Plan, developed to reflect the investment priority to maintain and improve the housing stock to meet national housing quality and energy efficiency standards. The programme also included projects to increase the supply of Council housing as well as environmental works and legislative compliance programmes, to ensure that all safety requirement standards were met. 3 19
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The movement from the original 2024/2025 revenue budget was outlined in Appendix 1 to the report. The 2025/2026 budget proposal also included a provision of £2.273 million for bad debt which would be required to continue to provide for the potential impact on rent collection and arrears. This included contingency for the ongoing uncertainty on rental collections in the coming year due to cost-of-living pressures, continued managed migration to Universal Credit and an allocation of £0.300 million for tenancy sustainment mitigation. During previous budget engagement, tenants had favoured multi-year agreements on the basis that they would have some clarity regarding rent levels in the medium term. A rent increase of 6.50% was proposed from 2025/2026, with a further 6.50% increase in 2026/2027, as the second year of a 3-year multi-year agreement. In accordance with statutory requirements, this would be subject to annual review and customer engagement. This approach allowed the Council and tenants to plan and budget on a longer-term basis. The proposed 2025/2026 HRA capital programme was detailed in Appendix 2 to the report. Information was provided on:- the funding allocation in the Scottish Government draft budget for 2025/2026 for the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, which would increase by 44%, with the Council continuing to engage with the Scottish Government to clarify how this would translate locally the budget consultation programme undertaken by the Council in conjunction with the Budget Scrutiny Group and the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group Officers responded to members’ questions in relation to:- specific updates being provided to Committee in relation to bad debt and unpaid rents, particularly looking at the demographic, patterns and impact of the cost-of-living crisis the impact of the rise in employer’s national insurance on:- supervision and management costs tenants’ rents for this and future years and whether redress had been sought from the UK government reassurance that the Council had the in-house capability to cope with the reduced use of external contractors whether there would be any flexibility in the budget for Council house adaptations housing acquisitions targets The Head of Housing Services undertook to provide a member with information in relation to upgrading works in their ward. The Committee recommended to the Executive Committee: (1) that the proposed rent increase of 6.50% to be applied in 2025/2026, with a further 6.50% increase in 2026/2027, subject to annual review and customer engagement, for all Council houses, Gypsy/Traveller sites, lock-ups and garage sites and the revenue estimate proposals for the HRA, as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report, be endorsed and referred to the Council for approval; and (2) that, based on the proposed rent increase of 6.50%, the 2025/2026 Housing Capital Programme of £85.948 million, as detailed in Appendix 2 to the report, be endorsed and referred to the Council for approval. [Reference: Minutes of 27 November 2024 (Paragraph 10) and Minutes of the special meeting of South Lanarkshire Council of 21 February 2024 (Paragraph 3)] 20
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3 Urgent Business There were no items of urgent business. 21
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Revenue Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources - Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April to 27 December 2024 for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) provide a forecast for the year to 31 March 2025 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the forecast breakeven position on Housing and Technical Resources’ (HRA) revenue budget, as detailed in Appendix A to the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. 3. Background 3.1. This is the third revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2024/2025. 3.2. This report reflects the actual spend to 27 December 2024 within the Resource budget and reflects the expected outturn forecast on expenditure and income at this date. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 27 December 2024, there was a forecast breakeven position against the budget. This is outlined in Appendix A to the report. 5.2. This breakeven position includes a lower than budgeted Transfer from Reserves, reflecting a net reduction in expenditure for the year. This is detailed in Appendix A to the report. 5.3. Appendix A to the report also notes the actual position, as at 27 December 2024, being a net income position of £31.538 million. This reflects the timing of income and expenditure at that point in the year. 4 23
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6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. The risk is managed through 4 weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. In addition, the move to routine forecasting and the work within the Resource and Finance teams, ensures early warning for corrective action to be taken where appropriate. 7.2. Inflationary and budget pressures increase the risk of overspend, however, these pressures are assessed and managed within the budget planning exercise for current and future years. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 29 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 27 December 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 24
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Appendix A SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 27 December 2024 (No.10) Housing Revenue Account Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 14,415 14,374 41 under 0.28% 10,572 Property Costs 60,703 60,258 445 under 0.73% 38,904 1 Supplies & Services 1,543 1,553 (10) over (0.65%) 391 Transport & Plant 195 127 68 under 34.87% 138 Administration Costs 5,594 5,469 125 under 2.23% 325 2 Payments to Other Bodies 2,975 3,354 (379) over (12.74%) 2,086 3 Payments to Contractors 100 100 0 - 0.00% 335 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 33,573 33,571 2 under 0.01% 3 Total Controllable Exp. 119,098 118,806 292 under 0.25% 52,754 Total Controllable Inc. (123,397) (124,665) 1,268 over recovered (1.03%) (84,292) 4 Transfer to/(from) Balance Sheet (4,862) (3,141) (1,721) under recovered 35.40% 0 5 Net Controllable Exp. (9,161) (9,000) (161) under 1.76% (31,538) Loan Charges 9,161 9,000 161 under 1.76% 0 6 Net Controllable Exp. / (Inc.) 0 0 0 - 0.00% (31,538) Variance Explanations 1. The underspend in property costs is due to the net effect of lower than forecast bad debt write offs and forecast expenditure on grounds maintenance charges partially offset by greater than forecast repairs and maintenance expenditure, electricity charges and fixtures and fittings due to increased demand. 2. The underspend is mainly due to lower than forecast expenditure on postage, printing and stationery and mobile phone costs. 3. The overspend in Payments to Other Bodies reflects additional support payments for current IT systems. 4. The over recovery in income is due to greater than budgeted income from rent collection offset in part by lower-than-expected income from laundry charges and reflects the severe weather insurance settlement being less than expected arising from ineligible expenditure. 5. The transfer to reserves is anticipated to be lower than budget due to the overall projected position. 6. The underspend is due to forecast loan charges being lower than budget along with interest on revenue balances being greater than anticipated. Virements There are no virements to report. 25
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2024 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Revenue Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (Excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the actual expenditure measured against the revenue budget for the period 1 April 2024 to 27 December 2024 for Housing and Technical Resources (excl HRA) provide a forecast for the year to 31 March 2025 [1pur 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the forecast to 31 March 2025 of a breakeven position after approved transfer to reserves as detailed in Appendix A of the report, be noted; and (2) that the proposed budget virements be approved. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the third revenue budget monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2024/2025. 3.2. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (excluding HRA). Appendix A to the report provides the service analysis statement, outlining key highlights by Service for the Resource and Appendices B to D to the report provide the detailed financial position with variance explanations by budget category. 3.3. This report reflects the actual spend to 27 December 2024 within the Resource budget and reflects the expected outturn forecast on expenditure and income at this date. The output from the formal Probable Outturn exercise is noted in Section 5.2. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. As at 27 December 2024, the Resource’s projected outturn position for 2024/2025 is an underspend of £0.705 million, before transfers to reserves. This is outlined in Appendix A to the report. 5 27
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5.2. Probable Outturn Following the Council’s formal Probable Outturn exercise, the forecast for the budget to 31 March 2025 is a breakeven position after transfers to reserves of £0.705m approved at the Executive Committee (12 February 2025). This position is outline in Appendices B to D. 5.3. Virements are proposed to realign budgets. These movements have been detailed in the appendices to this report, as appropriate. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Revenue Budget is that there is an overspend. The risk is managed through four weekly Budget Monitoring Meetings at which any variance is analysed. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 29 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References None List of Background Papers Financial ledger and budget monitoring results to 27 December 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: - Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager Ext: 2680 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail : kathleen.gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 28
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Appendix A Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period 10 Ended 27 December 2024 (No. 10) Revenue Budget Monitoring Report – Service Analysis Service Analysis Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) % YTD Actual (£000) Housing Services 9,182 8,644 538 5.86% 9,499 Property Services 5,909 5,742 167 2.83% 13,105 Net Controllable Exp. 15,091 14,386 705 8.69% 22,604 Service Heading Explanation for significant projected outturn variances Housing Services The service is anticipated to underspend at the year-end mainly due to reduced payments to external providers for sheltered housing. Expenditure on temporary accommodation within the Homelessness service is forecast to overspend however this is offset by an underspend on commissioned services and anticipated increased rental income. Transfers to reserves of £0.455m have been approved by the Executive Committee (12 February 2025): £0.237m for Homelessness Temporary Accommodation and £0.218m for the Ukraine Resettlement Funding. Property Services The service is anticipated to underspend at the year-end mainly due to lower than forecast rates and utility charges within Office Accommodation and employee costs within CCTV and Estates. These underspends are offset in part by overspends in repairs and maintenance within Property Maintenance. There is also a forecast underspend on employee costs within Building Services and an over recovery in income which are anticipated to offset an overspend in payment to contractors. There is a proposed transfer to reserves of £0.250m at the end of the financial year relating to an underspend in Office Accommodation budgets. 29
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Appendix B SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 27 December 2024 (No.10) Housing and Technical Resources Summary (excl HRA) Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 46,818 45,078 1,740 Under 3.72% 32,002 Property Costs 20,615 21,787 (1,172) Over (5.69%) 22,836 Supplies & Services 13,522 11,713 1,809 Under 13.38% 3,999 Transport & Plant 4,677 4,219 458 Under 9.79% 3,569 Administration Costs 3,724 3,743 (19) Over (0.51%) 719 Payments to Other Bodies 6,979 7,050 (71) Over (1.02%) 3,626 Payments to Contractors 12,376 17,350 (4,974) Over (40.19%) 12,427 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 156 137 19 Under 12.18% 17 Total Controllable Exp. 108,867 111,077 (2,210) Over (2.03%) 79,195 Total Controllable Inc. (93,776) (96,691) 2,915 Over Recovered (3.11%) (56,592) Net Controllable Exp. 15,091 14,386 705 - 4.67% 22,603 Transfer to Reserves 0 705 (705) Position after Transfer to Reserves 15,091 15,091 0 - 0.00% Variance Explanations Variances are shown in Appendices C and D. Budget Virements Virements are shown in Appendices C and D. Approved Transfers to Reserves Transfer to Reserves are shown in Appendices C and D. 30
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Appendix C SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 27 December 2024 (No.10) Housing Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 4,140 4,092 48 Under 1.16% 2,458 a Property Costs 7,579 8,220 (641) Over (8.46%) 9,884 1, b Supplies & Services 204 183 21 Under 10.29% 53 Transport & Plant 147 118 29 Under 19.73% 72 Administration Costs 146 147 (1) Over (0.68%) 71 Payments to Other Bodies 4,326 4,228 98 Under 2.27% 2,449 2 Payments to Contractors 2,295 2,172 123 Under 5.36% 822 3 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 12 13 (1) Over (8.33%) 1 Total Controllable Exp. 18,849 19,173 (324) Over (1.72%) 15,810 Total Controllable Inc. (9,667) (10,529) 862 Over Recovered (8.92%) (6,311) 4 Net Controllable Exp. 9,182 8,644 538 Under 5.86% 9,499 Transfer to Reserves 0 455 (455) 0.00% Position after Transfer to Reserves 9,182 9,099 83 Under 0.90% Variance Explanations 1. The forecast overspend relates to commissioned services in the homelessness budget where expenditure varies according to service requirements, offset by the over recovery of income (see 4. below). 2. The forecast underspend is mainly due to lower than budgeted payments to Registered Social Landlords for Housing Support Services. 3. The underspend relates to commissioned services in the homelessness budget where expenditure varies according to service requirements. 4. The forecast over recovery of income mainly offsets the additional costs in relation to the homelessness service (see 1. above). Budget Virements a. Transfer of budget in relation to pay award. Net effect £0.112m: Employees £0.112m. b. Redetermination of General Revenue Grant in respect of Temporary Accommodation and Ukraine Resettlement Funding. Net effect £0.303m: Property Costs £0.303m. Approved Transfers to Reserves (£0.455m): i. Homelessness Temporary Accommodation (£0.237m). There is an underspend in the current year forecast, and it is proposed to transfer this to reserves to fund future investment in the Homelessness service to meet future demands. ii. Ukraine Resettlement Funding (£0.218m). This funding forms part of the 2024/2025 revenue grant redeterminations and will be carried forward for use in 2025/2026. 31
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Appendix D SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Revenue Budget Monitoring Report Housing and Technical Resources Committee: Period Ended 27 December 2024 (No.10) Property Services Revised Annual Budget (£000) Projected Outturn (£000) Projected Outturn Variance (£000) Over / Under % YTD Actual (£000) Notes Employee Costs 42,678 40,986 1,692 Under 3.96% 29,544 1, a, b, Property Costs 13,036 13,567 (531) Over (4.07%) 12,953 2, a, c Supplies & Services 13,318 11,530 1,788 Under 13.43% 3,946 3 Transport & Plant 4,530 4,101 429 Under 9.47% 3,497 4 Administration Costs 3,578 3,596 (18) Over (0.50%) 648 Payments to Other Bodies 2,653 2,822 (169) Over (6.37%) 1,177 5 Payments to Contractors 10,081 15,178 (5,097) Over (50.56%) 11,605 6 Transfer Payments 0 0 0 - 0.00% 0 Financing Charges 144 124 20 Under 13.89% 16 Total Controllable Exp. 90,018 91,904 (1,886) Over (2.10%) 63,386 Total Controllable Inc. (84,109) (86,162) 2,053 Over Recovered (2.44%) (50,281) 7, a Net Controllable Exp. 5,909 5,742 167 Under 2.83% 13,105 Transfer to Reserves 0 250 (250) Position after Transfer to Reserves 5,909 5,992 (83) Over (1.40%) Variance Explanations 1. The forecast underspend relates to turnover and vacancies Building Services and Estates which are actively being recruited as required. 2. The forecast overspend relates to service charges within Estates and costs associated with planned and reactive maintenance of Council properties. 3. The forecast underspend mainly relates to lower than anticipated expenditure on materials within Building Services due to the timing of capital and revenue works. It also includes an underspend on minor adaptations (refer 5 below). 4. The level of expenditure on scaffolding, plant and other transportation costs varies depending on the current workload demands and timing of works on a wide variety of capital and revenue works within Building Services. 5. The forecast overspend is in relation to grants for Homeowners via the Private Sector Scheme of Assistance and is offset by an underspend in Supplies and Services for minor adaptations (refer 3 above). 6. The forecast overspend reflects current workload demands and timing of works by Building Services, on a wide variety of capital and revenue works. 7. The forecast over recovery of income is due to the recharge of the net additional spend incurred by Building Services, reflecting the level and type of revenue and capital works undertaken this financial year. Budget Virements a. Transfer of budget in relation to pay award. Net effect £0.347m: Employees £1.532m, Property Costs £0.209m, Income (£1.394m) b. Removal of budget in respect of Overtime savings 2024/2025. Net effect (£0.100m): Employees (£0.100m). e. Transfer of budget in relation to Net Zero Innovation Fund (2024/2025 Investment monies). Net effect £0.075m. Property Costs £0.075m Approved Transfers to Reserves (£0.250): i. Office Accommodation (£0.250m). Underspend from property rationalisation to be used to support future property requirements. 32
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (Housing Revenue Account) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) for the period 1 April to 27 December 2024 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the revised Housing and Technical Resources HRA capital programme of £77.248 million, and forecast expenditure of £73.112 million, be noted. 3. Background 3.1. This is the third capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2024/2025. 3.2. The budget is based on the revised capital programme for the year, which was approved by the Executive Committee on 13 November 2024. 3.3. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources (HRA) in Appendix A to the report. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications contained within this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. The Housing Capital Programme for 2024/2025 totals £77.248 million and is detailed along with the funding sources at Appendix A to the report. This budget is based on the original programme approved by the Council in February 2024, budget carried forward from financial year 2023/2024 and the Scottish Government Affordable Housing Grant available for 2024/2025. 5.2. The current forecast for 2024/2025 from Housing and Technical Resources has identified an outturn of £73.112 million for the year, an underspend of £4.136 million. As reported previously, this is a result of delays in site starts at Cairnswell Avenue, Cambuslang and Brackenhill Farm, Hamilton. In addition, the average purchase price for properties purchased through the Market Purchase Scheme has reduced reflecting the current size of properties. 6 33
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5.3. Any Council funding not utilised in year (borrowing) will carry forward into the next financial year. 5.4. The spend to 30 December 2024 on the Housing Capital Programme amounts to £43.425 million. 5.5. As at 30 December 2024, £43.425 million of funding had been received. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is an overspend. The risk is mitigated through the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through four weekly Investment management meetings. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There was also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 29 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes ♦ Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References ♦ Executive Committee, 13 November 2024 List of Background Papers ♦ Financial ledger to 27 December 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Kathleen Gowrie, Finance Manager (Resources) Ext: 2601 (Tel: 01698 452601) E-mail: Kathleen.Gowrie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 34
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South Lanarkshire Council Appendix A Housing Capital Programme 2024/2025 As at 27 December 2024 2024/25 Annual Budget 2024/25 Forecast Spend 2024/25 Forecast Variance 2024/25 Actual to 27/12/24 £m £m £m £m Expenditure 2024/25 Budget 77.248 73.112 4.136 43.425 2024/25 Annual Budget 2024/25 Actual to 27/12/24 £m £m Income Capital Receipts 0.000 0.265 Capital Funded from Current Revenue 33.506 32.330 Prudential Borrowing 23.363 0.000 Scottish Government Specific Grant: - New Build 17.259 10.206 - Open Market Purchase Scheme 3.000 0.000 - Mortgage to Rent 0.120 0.353 Other Income 0.000 0.271 77.248 43.425 35
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Capital Budget Monitoring 2024/2025 - Housing and Technical Resources (excl Housing Revenue Account (HRA)) 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide information on the progress of the capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources (excl. HRA) for the period 1 April to 30 December 2024 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the Housing and Technical Resources capital programme of £9.984 million, and forecast expenditure of £8.120 million, be noted. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. This is the third capital monitoring report presented to the Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the financial year 2024/2025. Further reports will follow throughout the year. 3.2. The revised budget of £9.984 million for Housing and Technical Resources is based on the overall Capital Programme for 2024/2025 (June 2024) and includes updates approved by the Executive Committee on 11 December 2024 (a decrease of £0.645 million). 3.3. The report details the financial position for Housing and Technical Resources in Appendix A to the report. 4. Employee Implications 4.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 5. Financial Implications 5.1. 2024/2025 Budget As detailed in Section 3.2 in the report, the revised capital programme for Housing and Technical Resources is £9.984 million and includes budget amendments, totalling a net decrease of £0.645 million, which have been approved by the Executive Committee on 11 December 2024. The details of these amendments are shown in Appendix A to the report. 7 37
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5.2. 2024/2025 Forecast Appendix A to the report shows a forecast for the financial year of £8.120 million. This forecast underspend reflects the timing of spend across this year and into the new financial year, and results in budget required in 2025/2026, rather than 2024/2025. Funding for projects remaining underspent at the financial year end will be carried forward, to allow the projects to be completed in 2025/2026. As at 30 December 2024, work continues to clarify the predicted spend position for the General Services Capital Programme for the remainder of this financial year. Officers will continue to work to maximise spend in 2024/2025. 5.3. For information, actual expenditure to 30 December 2024 is £5.012 million. 6. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 6.1. There are no implications for climate change, sustainability or the environment in terms of the information contained in this report. 7. Other Implications 7.1. The main risk associated with the Council’s Capital Programme is that there is an overspend. The risk has been assessed as low given the detailed project management plans prepared and monitored for each project. The risk of overspend is managed through four weekly Investment Management Meetings. 8. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 8.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 8.2. There is also no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in the report. Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 28 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, Effective, Efficient and Transparent Previous References Executive Committee, 11 December 2024 List of Background Papers ▪ Financial ledger to 30 December 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact: Graham Booth, Finance Manager (Strategy) Ext: 2699 (Tel: 01698 452699) E-mail: graham.booth@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 38
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Appendix A South Lanarkshire Council Capital Expenditure 2024-25 Housing and Technical Resources Programme (excl HRA) For Period 1 April 2024 – 30 December 2024 Housing and Technical Resources (excl. HRA) Base Budget £000 Budget Adjustment s £000 Slippage/ Acceleration £000 Total Budget £000 Forecast Spend £000 Forecast Variance £000 Actual Expenditure £000 Asset Management Programme 8,675 - - 8,675 7,261 1,414 4,601 Private Housing Scheme of Assistance 1,000 (1,000) - - - - - Other Housing 1,254 700 (645) 1,309 859 450 411 TOTAL 10,929 (300) (645) 9,984 8,120 1,864 5,012 For Information Only Budget Adjustments presented for approval by Executive Committee, 11 December 2024: Budget Adjustments Alarms (Analogue to Digital) Fire Alarm System Upgrade CEEF - 2024/2025 programme Total Budget Adjustments (£0.607m) (£0.038m) (£0.645m) 39
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) and Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing and Technical Resources – Workforce Monitoring – October to December 2024 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] provide employment information for October to December 2024 relating to Housing and Technical Resources [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that the following employment information for October to December 2024 relating to Housing and Technical Resources be noted:- attendance statistics occupational health accident/incident statistics discipline, grievance and Dignity at Work cases analysis of leavers and exit interviews [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. As part of the Council’s performance management arrangements, regular workforce monitoring reports are submitted to Committee. This report for Housing and Technical Resources provides information on the position for October to December 2024. 4. Monitoring Statistics 4.1. Attendance Statistics (Appendix 1) Information on absence statistics is analysed for the month of December 2024 for Housing and Technical Resources. The Resource absence figure for December 2024 was 6.2%, this figure has decreased by 0.3%, when compared to the previous month and is 0.8% lower than the Council-wide figure. Compared to December 2023, the Resource absence figure has increased by 0.2%. Based on the absence figures at December 2024 and annual trends, the projected annual average absence for the Resource for 2024/2025 is 6.4% compared to a Council-wide average figure of 5.8%. 8 41
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Managers follow the procedures outlined in the Maximising Attendance Policy to support employees to remain at work, or to return to work after a sickness absence. There are comprehensive employee supports in place and additionally, Personnel Services work in close partnership with line managers and Resource Management Teams on a case management basis to ensure that appropriate actions are taken. 4.2. Occupational Health (Appendix 2) In terms of referrals to occupational health, 146 referrals were made this period. This represents a decrease of 24 when compared with the same period last year. 4.3. Accident/Incident Statistics (Appendix 2) There were 4 accidents/incidents recorded within the Resource this period. 4.4. Discipline, Grievance and Dignity at Work (Appendix 2) During the period, 20 disciplinary hearings were held within the Resource, an increase of 19 when compared to the same period last year. No appeals were heard by the Appeals Panel, this figure has remained unchanged when compared to the same period last year and 1 appeals panel is pending. One grievance was raised within the Resource, this figure also remains unchanged when compared to the same period last year. One Dignity at Work complaint was raised within the Resource, this figure has increased by 1 when compared to the same period last year. 4.5. Analysis of Leavers (Appendix 2a) There were 19 leavers in the Resource this period eligible for an exit interview. This figure has decreased by 2, when compared with the same period last year. Five exit interviews were conducted in this period, this figure has decreased by 2 when compared to the same period last year. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no implications for employees arising from the information presented in this report. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. All financial implications are accommodated within existing budgets. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications in terms of the information contained within this report. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There are no implications for sustainability or risk in terms of the information contained within this report. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. 9.2. There was no requirement to undertake any consultation in terms of the information contained in this report. 42
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Jackie Taylor Executive Director (Finance and Corporate Resources) Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 31 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Fair, open and sustainable Ambitious, self-aware and improving Excellent employer Focused on people and their needs Working with and respecting others Previous References Housing and Technical Resources, 27 November 2024 List of Background Papers Monitoring information provided by Finance and Corporate Resources Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Eileen McPake HR Business Manager Ext: (Tel: 01698 454668) E-mail: eileen.mcpake@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 43
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2022 / 2023 2023 / 2024 2024 / 2025 2022 / 2023 2023 / 2024 2024 / 2025 2022 / 2023 2023 / 2024 2024 / 2025 2022 / 2023 2023 / 2024 2024 / 2025 % % % % % % % % % % % % April 5.5 5.7 5.3 April 10.6 6.9 7.2 April 7.6 6.2 6.1 April 5.6 5.1 5.2 May 4.5 4.9 5.2 May 8.1 6.1 8.1 May 6.0 5.4 6.4 May 5.4 5.1 5.3 June 4.9 5.4 5.7 June 8.5 6.8 8.4 June 6.4 6.0 6.8 June 5.3 4.7 5.2 July 5.5 5.0 5.3 July 8.9 8.1 8.6 July 6.9 6.2 6.7 July 4.6 3.8 4.1 August 4.7 5.1 5.5 August 7.1 8.5 8.8 August 5.7 6.4 6.9 August 4.4 4.1 4.7 September 4.5 4.7 7.5 September 6.3 7.8 7.4 September 5.2 6.0 7.5 September 5.4 5.3 6.1 October 4.3 4.9 7.3 October 7.8 5.2 6.0 October 5.8 5.0 6.8 October 5.8 5.1 6.0 November 4.6 4.8 6.8 November 7.8 6.7 6.2 November 5.9 5.6 6.5 November 6.5 6.2 6.9 December 4.4 5.1 6.4 December 7.2 7.4 5.8 December 5.6 6.0 6.2 December 7.0 6.6 7.0 January 4.5 4.4 January 5.5 6.0 January 4.9 5.0 January 5.8 6.1 February 4.4 5.2 February 6.2 6.3 February 5.1 5.6 February 5.9 6.4 March 5.3 5.3 March 6.8 7.2 March 5.9 6.1 March 6.4 6.3 Annual Average 4.8 5.0 5.8 Annual Average 7.6 6.9 7.2 Annual Average 5.9 5.8 6.4 Annual Average 5.7 5.4 5.8 Average Apr-Dec 4.8 5.1 6.1 Average Apr-Dec 8.0 7.1 7.4 Average Apr-Dec 6.1 5.9 6.7 Average Apr-Dec 5.6 5.1 5.6 860 546 1406 15698No of Employees at 31 December 2024No of Employees at 31 December 2024 No of Employees at 31 December 2024 No of Employees at 31 December 2024 Appendix 1 Housing & Technical Resources Resource Total Absence Trends - 2022/2023, 2023/2024 & 2024/2025 APT&C Manual Workers Council Wide 44
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Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS Number of Employees Attending EMPLOYEE COUNSELLING SERVICE Total Number of Referrals PHYSIOTHERAPY SERVICE Total Number of Referrals REFERRALS TO EMPLOYEE SUPPORT OFFICER 34 24 REFERRALS TO COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY 2 0 TOTAL 170 146 Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 Specified Injuries* 0 0 Over 7 day absences 1 1 Over 3 day absences** 1 0 Minor 7 0 Near Miss *** 0 1 Violent Incident: Physical**** 0 0 Violent Incident: Verbal***** 1 2 Total Accidents/Incidents 10 4 Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 Total Number of Hearings 1 20 Total Number of Appeals 0 0 Appeals Pending 0 1 Time Taken to Convene Hearing October - Oct to Dec 2024 0-3 Weeks 4-6 Weeks Over 6 Weeks 0 2 18 Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 Number of Grievances 1 1 Still in Progress 1 1 Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 Number of Incidents 0 1 Still in Process 0 1 ***Near Miss - Any unexpected, unplanned occurrence (except Dangerous Occurrences) that does not lead to injury of persons, damage to property, plant or equipment but may have done so in different Appendix 2 HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES 52 58 21 10 61 54 CAUSE OF ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS *A Specified Injury is any fracture (other than to the fingers, thumbs or toes), amputation, loss of sight, serious burns, crushing injury, scalping, loss of consciousness caused by asphyxiation/ head injury, a chemical or hot metal burn to the eye or penetrating injury as defined by the HSE. **Over 3 day / over 7day absence is an injury sustained outwith specified injury category that results in a period of absence of absence as defined by the HSE. RECORD OF DIGNITY AT WORK ****Physical violent incidents are included in the "Specified" figures, where applicable, to provide the ****Physical violent incidents and ***** Verbal Violent Incidents are included in the "Over 3-day or Over 7- day" figures, where applicable, to provide the "Total Over 3-day or Over 7-day" figures. ****Physical Violent Incidents and ***** Verbal Violent Incidents are included in the "Minor" figures, where applicable, to provide the "Total Minor" figures. RECORD OF DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS RECORD OF GRIEVANCE HEARINGS 45
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Oct - Dec Oct - Dec 2023 2024 Career Advancement 1 2 Child Caring / Caring Responsibilities 0 0 Disatisfaction with terms and conditions 0 0 Further Education 0 0 Moving outwith area 0 0 Personal Reasons 1 1 Poor relationship with managers / colleagues 1 0 Travelling difficulties 0 0 Other 0 2 Number of Exit Interviews conducted 3 5 Total Number of Leavers Eligible for Exit Interview 21 19 Percentage of interviews conducted 14% 26% ANALYSIS OF REASONS FOR LEAVING Appendix 2a HOUSING AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES 46
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Housing Allocation Policy – Local Letting Plans 2025/2026 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise on progress against the 2024/2025 letting targets request approval for the 2025/2026 letting targets request approval for the 2025/2026 local letting initiatives ?1ur[1purpos 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- [recs] (1) that progress against the 2024/2025 letting targets be noted; (2) that the 2025/2026 mainstream housing letting targets, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be approved; (3) that the 2025/2026 sheltered housing letting targets, attached as Appendix 2 the report, be approved; and (4) that the Local Letting Initiatives, attached as Appendix 3 to the report, be approved. [[1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Local Letting Plans (LLPs) have been a key feature of the Housing Allocation Policy since 2009. During the review of the Housing Allocation Policy in 2018/2019, it was recognised that LLPs continue to provide an effective means for ensuring that a strategic and flexible approach is taken in the allocation of Council housing in South Lanarkshire. Consequently, LLPs were retained within the revised Housing Allocation Policy, which came into effect in May 2019. 3.2. On an annual basis, LLPs are prepared for each of the housing management areas of South Lanarkshire. LLPs provide an overview of local supply and demand and set out:- annual letting targets for each of the 4 housing lists (in relation to mainstream and sheltered properties) details of Local Letting Initiatives (LLIs) in operation within a local area 3.3. The targets and initiatives detailed within LLPs are subject to Housing and Technical Resources Committee approval. This is the sixth annual report on LLPs since the revised Housing Allocation Policy was introduced. 9 47
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4. Homelessness Strategic Plan 4.1. In recent years, both across Scotland and locally, levels of homelessness have increased substantially, placing significant pressures on homelessness services. The South Lanarkshire Homelessness Strategic Plan sets out a number of actions to prevent homelessness as far as possible and otherwise minimise the impact, through the provision of good quality temporary accommodation, support as required and striving to end homelessness as quickly as possible. Identifying letting targets contributes towards achieving the priority objectives set out within the plan. 5. Achievement of the 2024/2025 Letting Targets 5.1. The information provided in relation to the achievement of letting targets has been projected to the end of the financial year, based on data collated between 1 April and 8 December 2024. This approach allows letting targets and letting initiatives to be fully implemented from the start of the financial year. 5.2. Across each housing management area, letting targets are set within bands for each housing list to allow for a degree of flexibility when allocating properties. Full details of the projected outcomes in relation to the targets set for both mainstream and sheltered properties in 2024/2025 are set out in Appendices 1 and 2 to the report. 5.3. In relation to mainstream Council properties, it is projected that across South Lanarkshire, performance against the Urgent Housing Need list will exceed the banded target. This can be attributed to the significant on-going demand for housing from homeless households in South Lanarkshire. Consequently, lets directed to the Transfer and Waiting lists are projected to be below the target, while lets to the Other Categories list are projected to be within the target band. A key focus for local housing teams is to increase lets to transfer applicants to help achieve the year-end target, which will in turn increase turnover. 5.4. In relation to the targets set for sheltered properties across South Lanarkshire, it is projected that lets to all housing lists will be within target. 6. Letting Targets for Mainstream Properties during 2025/2026 6.1. The letting targets proposed for mainstream properties across South Lanarkshire and for each of the 4 housing management divisions are set out in Appendix 1 to the report. 6.2. The factors which have been taken into account when setting the mainstream letting targets for 2025/2026 are detailed below:- ♦ demand for social rented housing remains high – 12,939 applicants were on the HomeFinder housing register as at 8 December 2024 ♦ a continuing high demand from homeless households – between 1 April and 8 December 2024, 1727 homelessness applications were received. Assuming this trend continues, it is projected that 2494 homelessness applications will have been received by the end of the financial year. Whilst this represents a decrease of 8.5% on the 2023/2024 year, numbers remain high ♦ the Council’s statutory duty to homeless households – the number of applicants assessed as homeless and to whom the Council has a duty to provide settled accommodation remains high. As at 8 December 2024, there were 1,554 homeless applicants on the HomeFinder housing register, this is comparable with the 2023/2024 year end position 48
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♦ the number of properties becoming available for let – it is projected that by the end of the financial year, 1,868 mainstream properties will have been let, this represents a slight increase of 2% (39) on the previous year ♦ additional supply of housing – the number of Council new build properties and acquisitions planned for completion during 2025/2026 support to individuals and families as part of refugee resettlement programmes joint working with partners – the contribution that HomeFinder partners and other Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) make to meeting housing need, including the needs of homeless applicants and other priority groups, through agreed targets 7. Sheltered Housing Letting Targets for 2025/2026 7.1. Between 1 April and 8 December 2024, 100 sheltered properties became available for let. It is projected that by the end of the financial year, 144 sheltered properties will have been let, broadly comparable to the number let in 2023/2024. 7.2. There continues to be a high level of demand for sheltered housing, with 1,032 applicants on the HomeFinder housing register as at 8 December 2024. 7.3. It is recognised that demand for sheltered housing varies across areas and individual sheltered housing developments and this has been taken into account in the letting targets proposed for 2025/2026. 7.4. The letting targets proposed for sheltered properties across South Lanarkshire and for each of the 4 housing management areas are set out in Appendix 2 to the report. 8. Local Letting Initiatives (LLIs) 8.1. The Housing Allocation Policy allows for the establishment of LLIs in areas where there are particular needs, issues or circumstances which require to be addressed. 8.2. During 2024/2025, there were 6 LLIs in operation across South Lanarkshire. To inform the development of the LLPs for 2025/2026, each of the letting initiatives have been subject to review, to assess their impact and identify whether there is a need for the initiative to continue. 8.3. Based on the findings from the review, and to help contribute to meeting the needs of homeless households in the area, it is proposed that the LLI to restrict lets to homeless applicants in Greenhill Court, Rutherglen be removed. Ensuring tenancy sustainment in Greenhill Court will remain a priority and future lets will be closely monitored to ensure stability within the community. 8.4. It is proposed that the remaining 5 LLIs be retained during 2025/2026 and a new LLI be introduced across South Lanarkshire, for the allocation of general needs flats situated in blocks where ground and first floor properties are designated and utilised as amenity flats. The new initiative will promote tenancy sustainment and consider the individual needs and circumstances of prospective tenants. Details of all LLIs are set out in Appendix 3 to the report. 8.5. In addition to the operation of LLI’s, local offices continue to support Council tenants currently living in larger homes to downsize where they wish to do so. As of 8 December 2024, 39 tenants were rehoused to smaller more suitable properties. In addition, through the right to mutual exhange, a further 18 tenants have downsized. It is proposed that this approach will continue in the year ahead. 49
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9. Next Steps 9.1. Implement 2025/2026 letting targets effective from Monday 7 April 2025. 9.2. Publish the 2025/2026 Local Letting Plans on the South Lanarkshire Council website. Housing Allocation Policy Local Letting Plans 2025-2026 9.3. Continue to monitor the impact of the LLIs throughout the year. 10. Employee Implications 10.1. There are no employee implications contained within this report. 11. Financial Implications 11.1. There are no financial implications contained within this report. 12. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 12.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy which impacts on the natural environment, climate change or sustainability. 13. Other Implications 13.1. The content of this report will contribute to the evidence to support the requirements of the Annual Assurance Statement. 14. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 14.1. An integrated impact assessment has been carried out on the Local Letting Plan (LLP) proposals outlined within this report. The assessment identified that in general the LLP targets and initiatives will have a neutral or postive impact on protected characteristics groups and socio economic groups. The assessment confirmed that the targets will contribute positively to the Armed Forces Community and to both Human and Children’s Rights through the effective allocation of housing to those assessed as being in housing need. 14.2. Consultation on the proposed letting targets and the LLIs has taken place with tenants representatives from of the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 23 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live We will work to put people first and reduce inequality Focused on people and their needs Caring, connected, sustainble communities Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous Reference Housing and Technical Resources Committee report – Local Letting Plans, 7 February 2024 List of Background Papers Local Letting Plans 2024/2025 50
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Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Sharon Egan, Head of Housing Services Ext: 4595 (Tel: 01698 454595) E-mail: sharon.egan@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 51
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Appendix 1 South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) Proposed Letting Targets for Mainstream Properties 2025/2026 South Lanarkshire Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 55-65% 1340 72 55-65% Transfer 15-25% 259 14 15-25% Waiting 15-20% 181 9 15-20% Other Categories 0-5% 88 5 0-5% 1868 100 Cambuslang/Rutherglen Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 55-65% 259 73 55-65% Transfer 15-25% 42 12 15-25% Waiting 15-20% 22 6 15-20% Other Categories 0-5% 32 9 0-5% 355 100 Clydesdale Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 45-55% 257 63 45-55% Transfer 20-25% 64 16 20-25% Waiting 20-30% 74 18 20-30% Other Categories 0-5% 12 3 0-5% 407 100 East Kilbride Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 60-65% 376 75 60-65% Transfer 20-30% 74 15 15-25% Waiting 5-15% 27 5 10-20% Other Categories 0-5% 27 5 0-5% 504 100 Hamilton Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 60-65% 448 75 60-65% Transfer 15-25% 79 13 15-25% Waiting 10-20% 58 9 10-20% Other Categories 0-5% 17 3 0-5% 602 100 52
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Appendix 2 SLC Proposed Letting Targets for Sheltered Properties 2025/2026 South Lanarkshire Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 15-30% 36 25 15-30% Transfer 40-50% 58 40 40-50% Waiting 25-35% 49 34 25-35% Other Categories 0-5% 1 1 0-5% 144 100 Cambuslang Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 15-20% 6 27 15-20% Transfer 35-45% 12 55 35-45% Waiting 35-45% 4 18 35-45% Other Categories 0-5% 0 0 0-5% 22 100 Clydesdale Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 15-20% 3 10 15-20% Transfer 35-45% 13 45 35-45% Waiting 35-45% 13 45 35-45% Other Categories 0-5% 0 0 0-5% 29 100 East Kilbride Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 20-30% 13 30 20-25% Transfer 30-45% 17 40 45-55% Waiting 30-40% 13 30 20-30% Other Categories 0-5% 0 0 0-5% 43 100 Hamilton Division Housing Need List 2024/2025 2024/2025 Projected Lets 2025/2026 Target Number % Target Urgent Housing Need 15-25% 14 28 20-30% Transfer 50-55% 16 32 35-40% Waiting 20-30% 19 38 30-40% Other Categories 0-5% 1 2 0-5% 50 100 53
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Appendix 3 Proposed Local Letting Initiatives for 2025/2026 Management Area Details of LLI Area covered by LLI Property types/sizes Duration of LLI Clydesdale Priority for housing will be given to applicants who have a social or economic connection with the area. To encourage tenancy sustainment, discussions will take place with prospective tenants to ensure that they fully understand the context to living in a rural location. Forth East Douglas Douglas Water Glespin Rigside All property types/sizes 1 year Hamilton Reasonable priority for housing to be given to applicants with an assessed mobility need. Almada Tower Wyler Tower 1 and 2 bedroom multi storey flats 1 year Cambuslang Reasonable priority for housing to be given to applicants with an assessed mobility need. Rosebank Tower Sherry Heights Standford Hall Logan Tower Springhall Court 2 bedroom multi storey flats 1 year Cambuslang Priority for housing to be given to Transfer list and Waiting list applicants who have a local connection. Cathkin Braes Tenant Management Co-operative area All property sizes and types 1 year Cambuslang Priority for housing to be given to Transfer list and Waiting list applicants who have a local connection. Whitlawburn All property types and sizes 1 year All areas Priority will be given to applicants who meet the criteria for amenity housing, taking into account their individuals needs and circumstances South Lanarkshire General needs flatted properties situated in blocks where ground and first floor properties are designated and utilised as amenity flats 1 year 54
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resource Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Homeless Pressures Update 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- update committee on the continuing pressure on homelessness services update committee on the impact of approved mitigations seek approval for the continuation of the Homeless Strategic Action Plan for one further year to 2025/2026 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendations:- (1) that the scale and nature of continued high demand for homelessness assistance both nationally and locally, be noted; (2) that the impact of mitigating actions set out in the Homeless Strategic Action Plan 2024/25, be noted; and (3) that the continuation of the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan for one further year to 2025/2026, be approved. 3. Background 3.1. Over the past year regular updates have been provided to Housing and Technical Resources Committee outlining the severe pressure placed on homelessness services due to sustained high levels of demand. 3.2. This position led to a range of mitigations being incorporated within the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan 2024/2025, approved by Committee on 16 September 2024. 3.3. Reports to Committee have highlighted that the extremely challenging circumstances experienced locally are being mirrored across Scotland. 3.4. Also previously noted in reports to Committee, national 5-year Rapid Re-housing Transition Plans (RRTP) concluded in March 2024. There is currently no further ask of local authorities or direction from the Scottish Government in relation to continuation of RRTPs or any alternative model. 3.5. However, confirmation was received on 19 December 2024 of 1 further years RRTP funding totalling £8 million across local authorities, which is on a par with previous years funding. Detail of the Council’s share of this funding is yet to be confirmed. 3.6. National focus remains on response to the housing emergency, with Council officials actively engaged in regular local meetings with the Scottish Government and participating in national working groups. 10 55
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3.7. The Council’s Homelessness Strategic Action Plan continues to focus on housing emergency mitigating actions and long-standing strategic objectives, founded on maintaining a person-centred approach to:- ♦ address the significant increase in the number of households in temporary accommodation ♦ maintain a sufficient supply of appropriate temporary accommodation ♦ improve the timescales to resolve homelessness ♦ reduce the number of children who are currently experiencing homelessness 3.8. The last update to Committee on 16 September 2024 noted early indications of a positive impact which the mitigating actions were having on key performance outcomes. It was, however, recognised this position followed 2 years of sustained increased demand and that consideration of the trends would be required over a longer time period to better understand the impact. 3.9. Progress continues to be made in further developing the Council’s temporary accommodation provision. This includes the development of supported accommodation in partnership with Social Bite and a Third Sector Partner which will launch in the summer of 2025 and additional first stop accommodation with timescales to be confirmed. 4. Performance Monitoring 4.1. Table 1 below sets out performance in relation to key indicators identified to gauge the impact of mitigations, implemented since April 2024, by comparing the position at Quarter 3 this year (up to 8 December 2024) with the same period the previous two years. Table 1- Comparison of Key Homelessness Measures 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 Homelessness Measures South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) % Change Quarter 3 YTD 2024/25 - 2023/24 SLC SLC 2024/2025 Quarter 3 2023/2024 Quarter 3 Year To Date 2022/2023 Quarter 3 Year To Date Number Homeless applications received 1734 -14.0% 2016 1724 Number Homeless / Potentially homeless decisions 1486 -11.5% 1679 1494 Caseload active 1552 -1.6% 1578 1107 Average case closure timescale 278.15 16.9% 238 208 Lets to Urgent Homeless 65.32% -2.5% 66.98% 56.38% Permanent Offers refused 53 0% 53 74 Appeals received 248 42.5% 174 111 UH tenancy sustainment 93.50% 0.5% 93.02% 92.78% Outcomes (Percentage of homeless households provided with a Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST)) 58.41% -5.63% 64.04% 69.30% 56
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4.2. It is worth noting again actions implemented since April 2024 have had limited time to show an impact up to the end of quarter three, particularly following sustained increased demand over a 2-year period. It will, therefore, take a period of stability for the pressure in the system to ease and caseload to reduce over time. 4.3. Notwithstanding this position, and despite homeless presentations continuing at higher rate than pre pandemic norms, latest statistics show a decrease of 14% in comparison to Quarter 3 the previous year (2023/2024). 4.4. Similarly positive homeless decisions have reduced by 11%, therefore, reducing the number of households the council owes a duty of permanent housing. 4.5. The caseload or backlog remains high, though recently shows a very slight reduction compared to last year (1.6%), in the context of the continuing focus on prioritising the allocation of available properties to homeless households. 4.6. To date there has not been any reduction in timescales to resolve homelessness which have over the last 2 years increased to a peak of an average 278 days in the current year. This represents an increase of almost 17% compared to last year due to the pressure in the system, it is anticipated this will reduce in time, provided the current reducing demand trend remains stable. 4.7. There has been a significant increase in the level of homeless appeals received over the last 2 years, while mitigating actions may be a contributing factor, the trajectory pre-dates their introduction. The trend can be attributed to the level of demand in the system and the availability of housing which matches applicant preferences. Close monitoring of appeal reasons and outcomes is in place, with year to date, over 95% of settled housing offers appealed have been upheld as reasonable to resolve homelessness. 4.8. The full range of performance measures which are used to gauge progress in relation to homelessness, remain under constant review and the full year’s performance against strategic outcomes will be reported to Committee at year end. 5. Homeless Strategic Plan Priorities for 2025/2026 5.1. The position at a national level will continue to be monitored and the Council will continue to take every opportunity to make the case for the increased resources required to support service delivery. 5.2. Meantime, the Council has continued its long-standing approach to strategic planning to meet housing and homelessness need, guided by Local Housing Strategy objectives. 5.3. A range of actions related to homelessness priorities, which were informed by learning through RRTP delivery, were set out in the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan approved by the Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 18 September 2024. 5.4. It is proposed this approach continues for a further year through 2025/2026, maintaining key priorities to meet homeless needs, including:- continued focus on prevention of homelessness, particularly in relation to households with children further progress the homelessness priorities and actions contained within the Strategic Commissioning Plan 57
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continue to prioritise social housing lets to resolve homelessness and reduce backlog, whilst balancing this with meeting wider housing need 5.5. It is, therefore, proposed the current Strategic Homeless Action Plan (included as appendix 1 to the report) is extended for a further year to cover 2025/2026 continuing mitigation actions, with a view to easing the pressure in the homeless system and final performance outcomes for 2024/2025 are reported to Housing and Technical Resources Committee at year end. 6. Next Steps 6.1. Council officers will continue to closely monitor performance and a full review of the Homeless Strategic Action Plan for 2024/2025 will be presented to Committee on 13 August 2025. 6.2. Partnership approach to homeless prevention and response continues, in particular, work with Health and Social Care Partners in developing the fourth Strategic Commissioning Plan, developing prevention opportunities connected to pending duties on public bodies (The Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024). 6.3. Progressing development of additional temporary accommodation, ensuring statutory duty to accommodate continues to be met and risk in this regard is reduced. 6.4. Officers will continue to work with Scottish Government officials directly and engage in national groups focused on addressing the housing emergency locally and nationally. 6.5. Progress in relation to the Homelessness Strategic Action Plan 2024/2025 will be reported to committee on 13 August 2025 7. Employee Implications 7.1. There are no employee implications as a result of this report. 8. Financial Implications 8.1. There are no financial implications as a result of the content of this report, however, it is worth noting uncertainty around future funding of homeless services remains a risk for the Council. 9. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 9.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy which impacts on the natural environment, climate change or sustainability. 10. Other Implications 10.1. The content of this report will contribute to the evidence to support the requirements of the Annual Assurance Statement. 10.2. There are no additional risks associated with this report. 11. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 11.1. There is no requirement for an equality impact assessment related to the content of this report. 58
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Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 6 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Focused on people and their needs Caring, connected, sustainable communities People live the healthiest lives possible Our children and young people thrive Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Previous References South Lanarkshire Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2019-24, Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report, 23 January 2019 Homeless Pressures Report to Executive Committee 12 June 2024 Annual Review of the South Lanarkshire Rapid Rehousing Plan and 2023/24 and Homeless Pressures Update, 16 September 2024 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Jacqueline Fernie Homelessness and Housing Support Manager Ext: 5139 (Tel: 01698 455139) E-mail: Jacqueline.fernie@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 59
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Homelessness Strategic Plan 2024/2025 Appendix 1 In our ever-evolving landscape of addressing homelessness, adaptability and strategic planning are paramount. As we revisit our RRTP action plan, we recognise the need for clarity, alignment, and purpose. This revised plan aims to provide a concise overview of our priority outcomes, measures and actions alongside mitigations approved to tackle the homeless emergency situation. The annual review for the final year of the RRTP 2023/2024 provided the opportunity to assess and report on the progress made against each of the actions and measures contained within the plan. It also allows for a general re-examination of the RRTP, to ensure that the objectives, actions, and measures identified, remain appropriate, relevant, and measurable. While the RRTP placed a renewed focus on partnership planning across Scotland, locally partners have, over the last 20 years maintained a consistent strategic focus on homelessness. Accordingly, while there is no specific requirement to continue or prepare a new RRTP to ensure a continuity of focus partners locally have agreed to continue the current RRTP for a further year. A report to Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 7 February 2024 set out a range of actions to help address the emergency homelessness situation. These measures of these are incorporated within an updated RRTP outcome framework for 2024/2025 with a dual focus, namely detailing the; 1. the actions identified to address the emergency situation; and 2. partnership actions which will be progressed to continue and further develop key areas previously included within the RRTP 2019/2024 While future requirements in relation to RRTPs at a national level remain to be clarified, this strategic plan reflects the continuing commitment of the Council and Community Planning Partners to the priority objectives set out in the original document. For the purposes of the strategic plan priority objectives 4 and 5 have been combined This reflects, that while partners remain committed to progressing Housing First funding restrictions significantly limit the ability to upscale activity in this area. Combining the priority objectives provides for a greater multi agency focus within the outcome, emphasising the need for a for a multi-agency approach to this. Priority Outcomes: 1. Prevent homelessness occurring wherever possible thus reducing its impact 2. Limit time spent by households in temporary accommodation and minimise temporary accommodation moves before moving onto settled homes 3. Ensure housing support provision meets the level and type of need for households to live independently within communities 4. Enhance integration and partnership working to embed RRTP through a whole systems approach 5. Implement and monitor the Homeless Demand Pressures Mitigations 10 61
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The plan has been reviewed to enhance efficiency and streamline processes to optimise resource utilisation. By doing so the plan will be impact driven by ensuring that every action and measure contributes directly to our vision: ‘Homelessness in South Lanarkshire is significantly reduced, with homeless households moving to a settled home as quickly as possible’. This will also strengthen collaboration and concentrate on partnership working in line with the impending prevention duties for seamless implementation. Actions: The plan sets out actionable steps, assigns responsibilities, and establishes clear timelines. The plan also incorporates the mitigations set to tackle the homeless pressures. Regular progress assessments through the continuation of the Homeless Strategy Group will guide the course of the plan. The document will be open to adjustments and improvements as we progress and learn from our experiences. Completed actions will be removed from the plan to ensure the document remains concise. Homeless Strategic Plan Strategic Outcome 1: Prevent homelessness occurring wherever possible thus reducing its impact Actions Ref. Action Start Milestone/Target Lead Partner 2025/26 Plan A1.1 Minimise increase in level of homelessness or maintain homelessness levels 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A1.2 (EA)* Reduce the number of children affected by homelessness 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A1.3 Promote homeless prevention activities to prevent homeless as far as possible 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A1.4 (EA)* Complete review of prevention approach and implement identified service improvements 2024/2025 March 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A1.5 (EA)* Undertake annual update of Temporary Accommodation Strategic Plan with ‘ordinary homes’ objective 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action 62
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Measures Ref. Measure Baseline 2023/24 Target Responsibility 2025/26 Measure M1.1 Number of homeless presentations 2728 Maintain or reduce Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M1.2 Level of Households Homeless (homelessness case load at year end) 1579 Maintain or reduce Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M1.3 Meet targets set for percentage of social housing allocated to homeless households by all social housing providers in South Lanarkshire SLC 62.90% RSL 43.50% 50-60% Housing and Technical Resources RSL Continuing Measure Strategic Outcome 2: Limit time spent by households in temporary accommodation and minimise temporary accommodation moves before moving onto settled homes Actions Ref. Action Start Milestone/Target Lead Partner 2025/26 Plan A2.1 (EA)* Review existing homelessness cases to ensure people appropriately queued to resolve homelessness 2024/2025 6 monthly report on progress Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 A2.2 Minimise the number of moves between types of accommodation by utilising emergency accommodation 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action 63
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A2.3 Increase affordable housing supply by progressing actions within the LHS and SHIP to increase supply through new build, acquisitions and bringing long term empty properties into use. 2024/2025 Aligned with Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) and the Local Housing Strategy (LHS). Annual target will be set and detailed in the Strategic Local Programme Agreement, developed between SLC and the Scottish Government. Housing and Technical Resources RSL Scottish Government Continuing action A2.4 (EA)* Complete the Personal Housing Plan review. 2024/2025 April 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 Measures Ref. Measure Baseline 2023/24 Target Responsibility 2025/26 Measure M2.1 Reduce the average time spent in temporary accommodation 181.5 days Manage in line with Temporary accommodation model requirements Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M2.2 Convert temporary accommodation units to SST wherever possible 12 10 Housing and Technical Resources RSL Continuing Measure 64
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M2.3 Increase the number of affordable homes added to the housing supply (new and market purchase) SLC 269 RSL 177 Aligned with the SHIP Housing and Technical Resources RSL Continuing Measure M2.4 Number of long term empty properties are brought back into use in South Lanarkshire 28 15 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M2.5 Increase the number of homeless households whose housing needs are met in the private rented sector 24 Increase on previous year Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure Strategic Outcome 3: Ensure housing support provision meets the level and type of need for households to live independently within communities Actions Ref. Action Start Milestone/Target Lead Partner 2025/26 Plan A3.1 Monitor, evaluate and adapt housing support services to improve homelessness prevention and support tenancy sustainment across all tenures 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources 3rd Sector Partners Continuing action A3.2 Complete an assessment of the availability of housing support services 2024/2025 Annual Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A3.3 Continue to develop and implement approaches to prevent youth homelessness, with a particular focus on pathway approach to meeting the needs of care experienced young people 2024/2025 95% pathway plans in place 95% sustainment Housing and Technical Resources Social Work Resources Continuing action 65
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A3.4 Deliver Private Sector Innovation Fund and Sustainment service providing financial support to private rented tenants to prevent homelessness 2024/2025 Widen scope of service delivery Housing and Technical Resources Right There Future delivery model under consideration for 2025/26 A3.5 Prepare and publish a domestic abuse policy setting out how tenants affected by domestic abuse will be supported and a view to preventing homelessness 2025/2026 Publish Policy Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A3.6 Implement new commissioning approach 2024/2025 Introduce consortium approach to commissioning Housing and Technical Resources Corporate and Finance Continuing action A3.7 Implement actions of Housing Support Review 2024/2025 New Housing Support lead role Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 Measures Ref. Measure Baseline 2023/24 Target Responsibility 2025/26 Measure M3.1 Ensure all homeless households who require support are provided with Housing Support Officer assistance, including specialist and intensive where required 100% Maintain 100% Housing and Technical Resources Salvation Army Blue Triangle Housing Association Continuing Measure 66
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M3.2 Maintain or improve the percentage of former homeless households provided with an SST that maintain their home for more than 12 months 91% Maintain/improve on Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M3.3 Sustain a low percentage of all homeless presentations which are repeated (within 12 months) 3.6% Reduce to less than 3% Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M3.4 Reduce the number of homeless presentations that result in the application being withdrawn 1.9% Reduce form the previous year Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M3.5 Reduce the number of homeless applications were contact is lost with the applicant 5.7% Reduce form the previous year Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M3.6 Continue to develop and implement approaches to support victims of domestic abuse and prevent homelessness 100% 100% HTR representation at MARAC Housing and Technical Resources BTHA Say Women Continuing Measure M3.7 Continue to deliver SHORE standards for people entering and exiting prison 533 Double interactions from 2022/23 Housing and Technical Resources ADP Social Work Resources Continuing Measure Strategic Outcome 4: Enhance integration and partnership working to embed RRTP through a whole systems approach Actions Ref. Action Start Milestone/Target Lead Partner 2025/26 Plan 67
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A4.1 Continue our Housing First approach to be the first partnership response for households with multiple complex needs 2024/2025 Maintain Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action A4.2 Expand workforce development and training across partners Ensure training and development across partners contains effective communication, coordination, and referral processes to ensure that individuals receive the right support and services at the right time (Ask & Act) 2024/2025 Ongoing All specified bodies Continuing action Measures Ref. Measure Baseline Target Responsibility 2025/26 Measure M4.1 Number of new Housing First cases in year 4 Maintain Housing and Technical Resources Salvation Army SACRO Continuing Measure M4.2 Promote ‘routine enquiry’ across all health and care services through the review of the Strategic Commissioning Plan and in line with the forthcoming Prevention Duties - Increase Health & Social Care Partnership Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure 68
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M4.3 Prioritise access to general medical and universal health screening services for homeless people, including primary care (GP), prescribing, dentists, etc Increase Health & Social Care Partnership Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure M4.4 Increase awareness of homelessness issues and services, particularly within the Third Sector Access to pathways monitored via VASLAN and third sector agencies Housing and Technical Resources VASLAN Continuing Measure M4.5 Deliver Housing Options and homelessness awareness training to young people, targeting high schools in areas identified with high homelessness rates amongst young people - Housing and Technical Resources Education Resources Continuing Measure M4.6 Continue to explore employment and training pathways for homeless/potentially homeless households Access to pathways monitored via Employability Housing and Technical Resources Employability DWP Continuing Measure M4.7 Promote Digital Inclusion for homeless/potentially homeless households Access to services monitored via FIN Sub-Group Housing and Technical Resources Continuing Measure 69
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Financial Inclusion Network Digital Inclusion Subgroup Strategic Outcome 5: Implement and monitor the Homeless Demand Pressures Mitigations (EA)* Measures Ref. Measure Start/Baseline Target Responsibility Progress M5.1 Homeless Pressures Update Report to Housing Committee 2024/25 February 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 M5.2 Continue to brief staff on further actions and service developments to address pressure on homelessness service 2024/25 March 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 M5.3 Review scrutiny group findings on access to homeless service and incorporate improvements as appropriate. 2024/2025 September 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25, feedback informing future planning M5.4 Consider wider urgent need – SHORE, GBV, Housing First - impact 2024/2025 March 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action M5.5 Review of webpages 2024/2025 June 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action 70
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M5.6 Communicate approach/implementation plan to staff: • Staff • Tenants & customers (UH applicants) • Elected Members • Partners - H&SCP, 3rd Sector, ADP, CAB • Trade Unions • Regulator 2024/2025 May 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 M5.7 Revise communications to ensure effectively reference the current pressure on service Consider strapline on emails for homeless service 2024/2025 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Action completed 2024/25 M5.8 Routine Performance monitoring will inform ongoing evaluation 2024/2025 Ongoing Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action M5.9 Develop revised Homeless induction and L & D programme 2024/2025 August 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action M5.10 Implementation of HOME system 2024/25 January 2025 Housing and Technical Resources Continuing action • *EA – Emergency Action 71
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: South Lanarkshire Council Housing Repairs Policy 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- seek endorsement from Housing and Technical Resources Committee for the introduction of the revised South Lanarkshire Council Housing Repairs Policy with effect from 5 May 2025 2. Recommendations 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendations:- (1) that the revised South Lanarkshire Council Housing Repairs Policy, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, be endorsed; (2) that the revised policy be submitted to the Executive Committee on 30 April 2025 for approval; and (3) that the revised policy be implemented with effect from 5 May 2025. 3. Background 3.1. The Council has a statutory duty to provide a repairs service to maintain its housing stock and related assets to an acceptable standard, as contained in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. This Act also requires that Council tenants are formally consulted in relation to any policy and service revisions. 3.2. The current Housing Repairs Policy was approved by the Housing and Technical Resources Committee on 23 May 2018 and sets out the Council’s approach to dealing with repairs to Council housing stock and related assets. 3.3. In accordance with the Housing and Technical Resources Policy and Strategy review schedule, approved by this Committee on 8 November 2023, a review of the Housing Repairs Policy was undertaken during 2024. 3.4. An internal officer group worked in partnership with tenant representatives from the Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group, Repairs Sub Group to carry out the review. The review involved an appraisal of the current policy, including repair responsibilities, service standards and actions required to ensure the policy supports a prompt, efficient and effective housing repairs service. Consideration was also given to statutory and regulatory requirements and operational practices. 3.5. This work informed the development of the consultative draft policy which was issued for formal consultation on 17 September 2024. 11 73
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4. Consultation process 4.1. Formal consultation on the draft Housing Repairs Policy took place between 17 September and 13 December 2024. The consultative draft policy was published on the Council’s website, together with an online questionnaire, developed to guide responses in relation to the following key aspects of the policy:- introduction to the policy policy objectives access to the repair service Council and tenant repair responsibilities rechargeable repairs service standards The questionnaire also gave respondents the opportunity to provide additional comments in relation to the policy. 4.2. The consultative draft policy was promoted via the Council’s social media platforms and through the digital edition of Housing news. Texts and emails containing a link to the draft policy and online questionnaire were issued to Council tenants, tenant and resident groups, interested individuals and members of the People’s Panel. The consultation on the draft policy was also highlighted to a range of other stakeholders including, Housing Association partners, Lanarkshire Carers, the South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership and Armed Forces Community Organisations. 4.3. During the consultation, an awareness session for Elected Members was held on 2 October 2024, providing an overview of the policy, the consultation arrangements and the opportunity to discuss the policy in more detail. 4.4. Discussions on the policy proposals also took place with key stakeholders and interested groups including:- South Lanarkshire Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group South Lanarkshire Disability Partnership Housing Sub-Group Gypsy/Traveller site residents homelessness service users Sheltered Housing tenants East Kilbride Sheltered Housing Forum employees within Housing and Property Services teams 4.5. A total of 977 responses were received from individuals and organisations who completed the online questionnaire. Detailed below is a summary of the responses received to the key questions within the questionnaire:- 91% of respondents agreed that the introduction to the policy clearly set out the purpose of the policy 84% of respondents agreed that the policy objectives are clear and appropriate 85% of respondents agreed that the policy clearly sets out how the repairs service can be accessed 87% of respondents agreed that tenants who breach their tenancy agreement through damage to or misuse of their home should be recharged for the work required to repair/reinstate 79% of respondents agreed with the service standards 74
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4.6. The views and comments received during the consultation were taken into account and informed the development of the revised policy. 5. Summary of Changes to the Housing Repairs Policy The revised Housing Repairs Policy reflects the comments made during the consultation but remains fundamentally based on the current Policy. The revised Policy will continue to support the Council’s approach to providing a prompt, efficient and effective housing repairs service. A summary of key changes made to the sections within the policy are set out below:- 5.1. Introduction 5.1.1. includes reference to highlight the significance of rechargeable repairs and the availability of further information on the Council’s website. 5.2. Policy Objectives 5.2.1. Objectives have been updated to include more detail on the Council’s compliance with legal duties. 5.2.2. An emphasis is placed on tenants’ responsibilities to provide access to carry out essential health and safety checks. 5.2.3. The aim of completing non-emergency repairs first time where possible, is confirmed. 5.3. Access to the service 5.3.1. To help ensure the service is as accessible as possible, details are provided on the range of ways a tenant can report a repair. 5.3.2 Methods no longer in use have been removed. 5.4. Repairs Responsibilities and Rechargeable Repairs 5.4.1. Additional information provided in relation to health and safety obligations and the need for tenants to provide access. 5.4.2. The requirement for written permission for tenant alterations is highlighted along with confirmation that no alterations are allowed to health and safety installations including fire doors. 5.4.3. Further information on rechargeable repairs is provided. 5.5. Delivering the Service and Service Standards 5.5.1 Highlights tenants’ obligation to allow access for repairs and advises on circumstances where the council may force entry. 5.5.2 Further detail is also provided in relation to owners’ responsibility for common repairs and essential health and safety inspections. 5.6. Comments, Compliments and Complaints 5.6.1 Updated to provide more information on making a complaint. 6. Overview of the Revised Policy 6.1. The policy sets out the Council’s approach to delivering a repair service to Council homes and related assets in relation to:- repairs reported directly by customers 75
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repairs identified through routine management of housing stock and estates planned programmes of maintenance 6.2. The Policy sets out a range of objectives to support the delivery of a high quality, efficient and comprehensive housing repairs service and ensures that the services provided are effective and achieve high standards of customer care. A number of actions are detailed and contribute towards the achievement of these objectives. 6.3. The Policy aims to make the housing repairs service as accessible as possible and sets out a range of ways tenants can report repairs and obtain information on the service. 6.4. Both the Council and tenants’ responsibilities are clearly defined, as well as the need for tenants to obtain permission from the council before carrying out any work on their home. The Policy also highlights circumstances in which a tenant may be recharged for a repair. 6.5. A focus of the Policy is to support the council to meet legislative compliance duties and emphasis is placed on tenants allowing access to their home for essential health and safety work to be carried out. 6.6. The Policy details how the repairs service is delivered and includes information on categories of repairs and associated service standards and other service areas including; planned maintenance, common repairs and annual servicing. 6.7. The full Policy document is set out in Appendix 1 to the report. 7. Next Steps 7.1. Subject to endorsement by Housing and Technical Resources Committee, the revised Housing Repairs Policy will be presented to Executive Committee for approval on 30 April 2025. 7.2. Subject to Executive Committee approval, the revised policy will be implemented from 5 May 2025. 7.3. A review of existing procedures and documentation is underway to ensure alignment with the revised Policy. 8. Employee Implications 8.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 9. Financial Implications 9.1. There are no financial implications associated with this report. 10. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 10.1. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy which impacts on the natural environment, climate change or sustainability. 11. Other Implications 11.1. The content of this report will contribute to the evidence to support the requirements of the Annual Assurance Statement to the Scottish Housing Regulator. 12. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 12.1. An integrated impact assessment has been completed as part of the development of the Housing Repairs Policy. The assessment of the revised repairs policy has 76
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confirmed the positive contribution the repairs policy will make to support tenants and ensure effective delivery of tenants’ rights. 12.2. As noted in Section 4 in the report, consultation on the draft Housing Repairs Policy took place between September and December 2024. During this period, a range of consultation events and discussions took place with stakeholders and other interested parties, including an awareness session for elected members, held on 2 October 2024. The views and comments received during the consultation informed the development of the finalised policy document. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 13 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Focused on people and their needs Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Fair, open and sustainable Ambitious, self aware and improving Working with and respecting others We will work to put people first and reduce inequalities We will work to recover, progress and improve Good quality, suitable and sustainable places to live Caring, connected, sustainable communities Previous References Housing and Technical Resources Committee Report – Housing Repairs Policy Review 23 May 2018 List of Background Papers None Contact for Further Information If you want further information or background papers, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services, Housing and Technical Resources Phone: 01698 454073 E-mail: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 77
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Appendix 1 Housing and Technical Resources Housing Repairs Policy If you need this information in another language or format, please contact us to discuss how we can best meet your needs. Phone 0303 123 1015 or email equalities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 78
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Contents 1. Introduction 2. Policy objectives 3. Access to the service 4. Repair responsibilities and rechargeable repairs 5. Delivering the service and service standards 6. Comments, compliments and complaints 7. Monitoring and review 8. Equal opportunities 9. Glossary of terms 79
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1. Introduction 1.1 The council has a legal duty to provide a repairs service to maintain our housing stock and related assets to an acceptable standard. 1.2 This policy document sets out our approach to dealing with repairs to council houses and related assets and details the following: • the policy objectives • access arrangements for the service • repair responsibilities of both South Lanarkshire Council, as the landlord, and the tenant (including rechargeable repairs) • service standards • delivering the service and service standards • comments, compliments and complaints • monitoring and review 1.3 The policy covers the responsive and planned repairs service we provide in relation to: • repairs reported directly by tenants • repairs identified through routine management of the housing stock and estates • planned programmes of maintenance, including communal and external areas that we are jointly responsible for with other owners The policy does not cover improvement works carried out through the Capital Investment Programme. 1.4 The policy reflects legal requirements and the terms of the South Lanarkshire Council Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement and is supplemented by more detailed information for tenants contained in a range of publications, including the Tenant’s Guide to Repairs which is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk 1.5 To complement the work carried out to improve our housing stock to the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) through the Capital Investment Programme, the repairs service plays a key part in ensuring that our housing stock is maintained to a high standard. The council will continue to invest in energy efficiency measures to help reduce running costs for tenants and install zero direct emissions heating systems where appropriate. 1.6 This policy is effective from 5 May 2025 and replaces all previous policies. 80
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2. Policy objectives 2.1 The council aims to provide tenants with a high quality, efficient and comprehensive housing repairs service. 2.2 The objectives of the policy are to: • provide a prompt, efficient and effective housing response repairs service • maximise the useful life of council housing stock and related assets • ensure homes are warm, comfortable and in a good and safe condition of repair and continue to meet the requirements of national housing standards • maximise planned maintenance programmes • achieve high standards of customer care • comply with our legal duties including access to carry out essential health and safety checks, for example, gas servicing and electrical safety testing • ensure ease and equality of service access and outcome 2.3 To help achieve these objectives, we will: • ensure all tenants are provided with clear information on their repair responsibilities and what we will do when the repair is our responsibility • ensure tenants are aware of their responsibilities in allowing access to their home for essential health and safety inspections or repairs, as required and in accordance with section 5 of their Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement • advise tenants when they report a repair, whether there is a need for an inspection before the work is carried out and make an appointment if required • carry out repairs in accordance with our published service standards • carry out non-emergency repairs on an appointment basis and where possible, complete repairs at the first visit • provide an emergency repairs service • carry out post inspection of a range of repairs to ensure that they are completed to the agreed standard • recharge repair costs from tenants who wilfully, or through neglect, damage their homes (see section 5 of the Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement and the Tenant’s Guide to Repairs) • consult and seek feedback from tenants to ensure that the services provided are appropriate and effective • monitor and continuously improve the performance of staff and contractors, taking into account feedback from tenants • review and where appropriate implement examples of best practice, and ensure value for money 2.4 Section 5 of this policy sets out our service standards and section 7 details the arrangements for monitoring progress with the service and achieving the policy objectives. 81
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3. Access to the service 3.1 The council is committed to making the housing repairs service open and accessible to all tenants. 3.2 There are a number of ways to report repairs, which are designed to make the service as accessible as possible, including: - • online through our website • by telephoning, writing or emailing • report emergency repairs out with office hours by telephoning the emergency out of hours service 3.3 Addresses and telephone numbers are detailed in publications and publicised on the council’s website. 3.4 We will provide a range of clear information on the housing repairs service, including: • repairs that we are responsible for • repairs tenants are responsible for • how to report a repair • how we will respond to repair requests • carrying out the work • comments, compliments and complaints 3.5 Information on the housing repairs service is issued to all new council tenants as part of the tenancy sign-up process and is available on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk 3.6 Where required, we will provide assistance to tenants with a disability and/or who are vulnerable to access the repairs service. 4. Repair responsibilities and rechargeable repairs 4.1 The council is responsible for the majority of repairs to the structure and outside of the building and to the fixtures and fittings in the home, to keep the structure of homes in good repair and to keep them wind and watertight. 4.2 We have a number of planned maintenance programmes in place, designed to ensure the safe and healthy occupancy of the home for tenants, their family and neighbours. These include annual servicing of all heating systems and five yearly electrical wiring checks. These programmes are carried out without the need for tenants to request the work and the main obligation on tenants is to provide access to their home in order to complete the works. 4.3 Whilst we are responsible for most repairs, tenants also have a responsibility for some repairs within their home. The main types of repairs for which the tenant is responsible are detailed within the ‘Tenant’s Guide to Repairs’ and include: - • decoration, including repairs to minor cracks, holes in plasterwork, laminate flooring and painted kitchens/wraps • damage/breakages caused by neglect or carelessness of the tenant, their family or visitors to their home • any floor coverings, including vinyl floor covering fitted as part of the Home+ Programme, but excluding floorboards and concrete flooring 82
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• supplying and fitting plugs and chains to sinks, basins and baths • fixtures and fittings e.g. curtain rails, decorative light fittings, external lights • light bulbs, fluorescent tubes or starters, plugs or fuses connected to appliances, unless fitted by the council • batteries for battery operated smoke alarms • cookers, refrigerators and washing machines (including the installation of washing machines) unless we provided them as part of a tenancy • extra door or window locks, spyholes or security chains • divisional fencing and outhouses • shower curtains • heating and ventilating the home to prevent condensation which may result in dampness. The above list is not exhaustive and there may be other repairs the tenant is responsible for. 4.4 As detailed in section 5 of the Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement, tenants wishing to carry out work to their properties beyond their general responsibilities, must get our written permission first. We will not refuse permission unreasonably. We may grant permission with conditions, relating to the expected standard of work. We will generally grant permission if we are satisfied that: • the work will be carried out to a sufficient high standard, using material of a suitable quality • the work will be carried out by a qualified person • the work will not impact neighbouring properties • where appropriate the tenant has obtained any necessary legal consents • the work does not alter any health and safety installations including fire doors 4.5 It is recognised that there may be tenants who, as a result of their individual circumstances, are unable to carry out repairs they are responsible for. In these situations, additional support and assistance may be available to the tenant to complete the repair. 4.6 Rechargeable repairs Tenants must pay for any repairs that have occurred as a result of: • damage or misuse caused by them, their family or visitors to their home • gaining access into their home and changing locks when they have lost their keys • the replacement of broken glass • alterations to the property without written consent from the council, including fire doors or any other alteration to health and safety installations Section 5 of Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement provides further information relating to re- chargeable repairs and tenant responsibilities. Whilst the list above identifies the most common re-chargeable repairs, it is not exhaustive. 5. Delivering the service and service standards 5.1 When the council is contacted with a repairs request, we will confirm whether the repair is our responsibility and: • help identify the repair needed which may include visiting the property to carry out an inspection 83
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• explain to the tenant how long it will take to complete the repair or inspection • offer a convenient appointment time for all inspections and internal repairs • telephone/write to/text the tenant to confirm details of all repairs by appointment and external works. 5.2 In line with legal requirements, we operate the ‘Tenant’s Right to Repair’ scheme. This allows tenants to arrange for certain repairs to be carried out by an alternative contractor if we have not responded within our publicised timescales. Tenants are advised when they report a repair to the Repairs Team if it is a ‘qualifying repair’ under this scheme. Compensation will be paid to tenants, where appropriate, in line with our legal obligations. Tenants will be required to submit their request for compensation in writing. 5.3 It may be necessary for us to carry out an inspection before work is carried out to identify the materials needed to complete the repair. If we do, we will arrange a weekday morning or afternoon appointment time for this visit to take place within five working days of the repair being reported. Where possible we will arrange appointment times that are suitable to the tenant. During the inspection the Technical Officer will advise the tenant of any repair works needed and the expected timescale for completion. Service standards 5.4 Work will be prioritised and instructed based on the type of repair and the risk posed to health and safety. Repair categories, together with their associated timescales for completion, are noted below: • Emergency repairs – we aim to complete these repairs within 24 hours. These repairs will generally be attended to within six hours of the fault being reported. No appointments will be made for emergency repairs, but we will discuss a suitable time to access tenants’ homes to make sure that the emergency work can be done. This category of work will generally involve making the fault safe and thereafter we will make an appointment, suitable to the tenant, to carry out any further work which may be required. The types of repairs carried out through this category include, but are not limited to, burst pipes, faulty electrics, no heating, security and health and safety issues. • Repairs by appointment – these are provided for the majority of work where we require access to homes. Where possible we will try to arrange appointment times that are suitable to the tenant. We aim to have these works carried out within 28 days from date of request. With all internal works we aim to have these repairs completed, where possible, at the first visit. The types of repairs carried out through this category include, but are not limited to, internal repairs to doors, floorboards, plasterwork, electrical and plumbing works. • External works – these are provided where the work is not urgent, and we do not need access to the home. We aim to have these works carried out within 60 days from date of request. The types of repairs carried out through this category include, but are not limited to, roughcast, boundary fencing, roofing, lock ups, gutters and downpipes. 5.5 For repairs by appointment and external works we will confirm to tenants the detail of the repair requested and the agreed appointment date and time. 5.6 Work required to enable tenants to be discharged from hospital Work required to a tenant’s home, to enable them to be discharged from hospital, will be prioritised. These works will be organised and arranged quickly in conjunction with Health and Social Care partners. 84
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5.7 Access to your home Tenants are required under the terms of their Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement to allow us as their landlord, access to their home to inspect, carry out repairs, or do other works that are necessary to their property or adjoining properties. As a last resort, where we have a health and safety or legal obligation to carry out works, or where there is an emergency, we reserve the right to force entry. 5.8 Planned and cyclical maintenance In addition to repair categories detailed at 5.4, we also carry out planned and cyclical maintenance works. This includes, but is not limited to, cleaning gutters, clothes poles, slab repairs and external paint work. Through the housing repairs service, we also aim to undertake additional work such as gutter cleaning and external paint work on a planned programme rather than on a responsive basis. This ensures that investment made to bring the housing stock up to the Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) is protected in the long term. Regular surveys of council housing and related assets will be undertaken to inform future works programmes and tenants/owners will be kept informed throughout. 5.9 Common repairs All property owners have a responsibility to meet a share of the cost of the maintenance of common parts of buildings that the council maintain. If the block is factored by the council, we will inspect and instruct repairs then recharge them to owners in accordance with the title deeds or deeds of declaration of conditions for their home. There are a number of blocks of flats in South Lanarkshire where the block is not factored by the council, but the council retains housing stock. In these cases, it is the responsibility of the owners managing the maintenance of the common parts of the building to progress any repairs required. Pemission should be sought from the council and owners and, in terms of the property titles, should be consulted ahead of any common area works. Ahead of any work being undertaken, we would strongly recommend that owners should first consult a solicitor. This will provide clarification from the property title deeds on whether the permissions required from the owners in the block should be by majority or unanimous to allow works to proceed; and for any further advice or recommendations on how to proceed. 5.10 Annual servicing The contractors appointed by the council will contact the tenant directly to make initial arrangements for access regarding annual servicing of all gas and solid fuel appliances, as well as lifts and fire/intruder alarms etc. 5.11 Heating Systems We place a high priority on the safety of all our heating systems. All reasonable efforts will be made to arrange a convenient appointment with tenants to have these works carried out, but if we are unable to do so, we may need to force entry at a date and time notified to the tenant. The cost of forcing entry will be recharged to the tenant. 5.12 Essential Health and Safety Inspections By law, we need to carry out inspection programmes of health and safety installations for example, annual gas servicing and fixed electrical testing every five years (which also includes inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms). This is to ensure the safety of tenants, their families and neighbours. We place a high priority on health and safety inspections. All reasonable efforts will be made to arrange a convenient appointment with tenants to have this work carried out. Where we cannot gain access to carry out essential work, we reserve the right to force entry to carry the work out. 85
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5.13 Carrying out the work When repair work is being carried out, we will treat tenants’ homes with courtesy and respect and expect tenants to treat us in the same way. While on site we will: • always display identification badges • explain the work we have come to do • advise which rooms we will need to work in • advise on whether any furniture or floor coverings (including laminate flooring) require to be moved to allow access to complete the work. This is normally the tenant’s responsibility, however, if help and assistance is required to move carpets or furniture, we will aim to assist. • advise approximately how long the work will take When tenants, members of their household or visitors’ actions or behaviours are considered unacceptable, we will take appropriate action in line with the council’s policy for dealing with unacceptable actions. We aim to carry out all works with the minimum mess and disruption possible and when the repair is complete, we will remove any debris. 5.14 Compensation Where we have caused damage to any fixtures and/or fittings in a tenant’s home, we will endeavour to repair or replace these and where this is not possible, a third-party claim form will be provided. On completion by the tenant the claim form will be assessed by our Risk Management Service and any compensation will be paid in accordance with the assessment made. Where dehumidifiers are required, whilst we try to complete repair works, we will pay compensation based on an agreed daily rate for each day that they are needed. Please note, where there are monies owed to a South Lanarkshire Council account, it is standard practice to transfer any compensation to reduce an outstanding balance before any remaining monies will be issued. 6. Comments, compliments and complaints 6.1 We are committed to providing high quality services to tenants, but we know that sometimes we may get this wrong. When this happens, we want tenants to tell us about it in order that we can put things right. Similarly, we want tenants to let us know if they are happy with the service we provide. 6.2 There are a range of ways that tenants can provide views on the service including: - • online through our website • by telephoning, writing to or emailing our Repairs Team • by completing and returning a satisfaction questionnaire • by providing feedback to tenant’s groups/local housing meetings etc 6.3 Tenants dissatisfied with any aspect of the service have the right to make a complaint through the council’s comments and complaints scheme. Complaints will be accepted either in writing or verbally and can be registered in two ways: • through a housing office, where staff will register the complaint; or 86
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• by completing and returning the comments and complaints scheme form Further information on the comments and complaints scheme can be found on the council’s website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. If, after making a complaint, a tenant continues to be dissatisfied with the service that they have received, a further complaint can be made to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will only consider complaints of injustice or hardship as a result of maladministration or service failure. The address of the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman is: Bridgeside House, 99 McDonald Road, Edinburgh, EH7 4NS (FREEPOST SPSO) 7. Monitoring and review 7.1 To ensure that the policy is achieving the objectives set out in section 2, it will be subject to regular monitoring and review. 7.2 Regular reports on performance will be provided to a range of audiences including: - • Housing and Technical Resources, Resource Management Team • Tenant Participation Co-ordination Group - Repairs Sub Group • Tenants, via local housing meetings, publications such as Housing news and through other council social media platforms 8. Equal opportunities 8.1 This policy is consistent with the council’s Equal Opportunities Policy and aims to ensure that we act fairly and lawfully on all occasions. We will not discriminate against anyone on the grounds of race, colour, ethnic origin, nationality, gender, sexuality, disability, age, religion or other belief. 8.2 An Integrated Impact Assessment has been carried out to ensure that the policy is inclusive and does not unfairly disadvantage any groups within the community. We will continue to monitor the policy to ensure that it achieves all equalities objectives set. 9. Glossary of terms Scottish Housing Quality Standard (SHQS) All social landlords (including the council) must ensure the homes they rent meet a minimum standard set out by the Scottish Government. Home+ Programme The council’s programme for delivering new homes and improving existing homes to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement (SSTA) The SSTA was introduced by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. It is a legal agreement which sets out tenant’s rights and responsibilities and is signed by every council tenant. Capital Investment Programme A programme of projects to renew major elements of work in council homes such as kitchens and bathrooms, windows and doors and central heating systems. Tenant’s Right to Repair scheme 87
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A scheme which was established in law and sets out rules to allow tenants to have certain types of repairs, which affect health and safety or security, carried out and the landlord pays for it. Planned and cyclical maintenance Works that are required to a number of homes within an area or areas, such as close painting, cleaning gutters or fascia replacement. 88
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Hollandbush Golf Course and Clubhouse, Lesmahagow – Community Asset Transfer to Hollandbush Golf Club 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise the Committee of the request for a lease of Hollandbush Golf Course and Clubhouse, by Hollandbush Golf Club, and seek approval to the principal terms and conditions as set out in Section 5 of the report [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the subjects at Hollandbush Golf Course and Club, New Trows Road, Lesmahagow, ML11 0JS be leased to Hollandbush Golf Club, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in conjunction with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the lease and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which are in the best interests of the Council. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Hollandbush Golf Course is managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC). However, following a review of it’s business plan, the SLLC Board announced that it could not sustain service delivery from this facility and control was returned to the Council. 3.2. Hollandbush Golf Club wish to take over the management of the golf course, the maintenance of the site and the development of environmental improvements throughout the course. The trustees of this organisation are already involved in the current Golf Club and have successfully managed the Club House and Social Events at the venue. 3.3. The Club submitted a request for Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of the golf course and club, the validation date for which was 6 September 2024. Public consultation was undertaken, and no negative comments or objections were received. Support for the application has come from a wide range of political figures and a broad range of partners, including Scottish Golf and other courses. 3.4. The request was placed before the CAT Assessment Panel on 20 January 2025 when the following matters were taken into consideration. 12 89
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3.5. Property 3.5.1. The extent of the property is shown in Appendix 1 to the report and comprises of an 18-hole municipal golf course, clubhouse and ancillary buildings. The course is laid out on the edge of a moorland area and is defined as a par 70 course measuring, 6262 yards. The golf course also contains a practice ground. 3.5.2. As there is no proposed change of use or development, planning consent will not be required for continued use. 3.6. Organisation 3.6.1. The organisation is a single tier Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) registered number SC053521, having registered this entity with Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) on the 22 July 2024. 3.6.2. This organisation has been established as a constituted vehicle for the purposes of the provision of recreational facilities, the organisation of recreational activities, service user wellbeing and advancing public participation in the sport of golf. The trustees of this organisation are already involved in the current Golf Club and the skills of the Board members demonstrates a depth of knowledge of the course and golf club memberships and overall management. 3.7. Project 3.7.1. The proposal is for the Club to take over the management of the golf course, the maintenance of the site and development of environmental improvements throughout the course. It will employ, and manage, a team of greenkeeping and administrative staff. Trustees will oversee the strategic direction and source funding to develop and enhance the facilities. 3.7.2. The applicant organisation is newly established, however, its trustees, volunteers and supporters have a successful history of running the club house and social events at the venue. Hollandbush Golf Club has been active since 1954 and existing surpluses generated demonstrate prudent financial management and ability to generate income from non-course activities. Surpluses generated from this activity have been allocated to supporting this application and assisting with cash flow in year 1 of the proposed new lease through interest free loans. 3.7.3 While there are reservations about the sustainability of the proposal and the capacity to finance the current operational costs, based on the known operational costs from SLLC, the club is confident that it can reduce and meet the operating costs based on the assumptions in the Business plan. 3.7.4 The applicant has produced a business plan, which recognises local priorities and confirmation of need. To achieve their end aims, a significant amount of grant funding will be required and the approval of this lease will make that more likely. 4. Assessment 4.1. The property is suitable for the proposed use and the organisation has the capacity and funds to manage the facility in line with the business plan. 4.2. The lease will enable the facility to continue to operate the facility and continue to remove liability for the Council in grounds maintenance. In addition, the lease will allow the Club to pursue external funding for the development of the facility. 90
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4.3. The Council has no alternative operational requirement for the subjects and the planning zoning, site location and lease use clause would safeguard the value in terms of any alternative proposal. The risks of the transfer are considered low, however, should the lease prove unsustainable for the Club, the Council will have the ability to resume full ownership and consider the future of the property. 5. Proposal 5.1. It is proposed to lease Hollandbush Golf Course and Club, New Trows Road, Lesmagow ML11 0JS to Hollandbush Golf Club, on the following principal terms and conditions:- 1. the lease will be to Hollandbush Golf Club 2. the lease will be for a period of 25 years 3. the date of entry to be agreed 4. the rental shall be £1 5. the lease to be fully repairing and insuring 6. the tenants will pay the buildings insurance costs as charged by the Council 7. the tenants will be required to obtain and exhibit as required public liability insurance to the value of £5 million for any one claim 8. the property will be used as a Golf club 9. the tenants to be responsible for any rates or property charges resulting from their occupation and use of the subjects 10. assignation and subletting will not be allowed 11. landlord's consent will be required for any structural alterations to the property 12. each party to be responsible for their own legal costs, however, the tenants will require to pay any registration fees and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) if required 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There are 6 members of staff (2 SLLC and 2 Council), who would be eligible for TUPE transfer to the Golf Club. However, discussions have been undertaken and the staff affected by the proposed transfer have indicated that they would seek to remain to be employed by the SLLC and SLC. Both organisations have capacity with existing vacancies to accommodate this. 6.2. The Clubs Business plan and financial projections include staff salaries for both the administration of the Club and course maintenance. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. The lease will result in a saving in grounds maintenance and operational running costs. 7.2. If the existing employees opt to exercise their right to TUPE transfer, the salaries (and conditions) would require to be met in the business plan for the golf club. 8 Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no issues in relation to climate change, sustainability and the environment contained within this report. 9. Other Implications 9.1. In terms of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, the Council have until 6 March 2025 to make a decision, and the recommendation of the CAT Assessment Panel will be presented to the meeting of the Housing and Technical Committee on 26 February 2025. 91
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9.2. The organisation has a right to appeal to Scottish Ministers should a decision not be made within this timescale, if the asset transfer request is refused or the organisation do not agree with the proposed terms and conditions. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. Consultation has taken place with the Community Participation Team, Legal Services and Community and Enterprise Resources. 10.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function, or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 20 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Caring, connected, sustainable communities Previous References ♦ None List of Background Papers Application and supporting documents via Planning Portal ref CAT/24/0008 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 92
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Appendix 1 12 93
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion, East Kilbride – Community Asset Transfer to EKRFC Dunedin Project Limited 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise the Committee of the request for a lease of Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion, by EKRFC Dunedin Project Limited and seek approval to the principal terms and conditions as set out in Section 5 of the report [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the subjects at Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion, Dunedin Drive, East Kilbride, G75 8QQ be leased to EKRFC Dunedin Project Limited, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in conjunction with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the lease and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which are in the best interests of the Council. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The subjects at Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion were previously managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC), however, have been dormant for a number of years and SLLC Board have confirmed that they are happy to transfer this site under Community Asset transfer and are supportive of the objectives. 3.2. EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd wish to operate the facility for youth rugby in East Kilbride and this is in addition to their existing offering at Calderglen Park, which no longer has the capacity to deal with demand. The Club are particularly interested in the development of youth, female and disabled rugby and see the Dunedin site as a key part of this plan. 3.3. The group submitted a request for Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of the Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion, the validation date for which was 16 August 2024. A public consultation ran from 16 August until 13 September 2024, during which time no comments were received 3.4. The request was placed before the Community Asset Transfer Assessment Panel on 20 January 2025 when the following matters were taken into consideration. 13 95
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3.5. Property 3.5.1. The extent of the property is shown on the attached plan and comprises a single storey pavilion, associated parking and 2 full size grassed pitches. The pavilion is in a poor to moderate state of repair. 3.5.2. The existing premises at Dunedin pitches, are classified as Class 11: assembly and leisure (a gymnasium or area for other indoor or outdoor sports or recreation) under the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Scotland) Order 1997 as amended. As there is no proposed change of use or development, planning consent will not be required. 3.6. Organisation 3.6.1. EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd is a private company, limited by guarantee (registered number 810655) having registered this entity with Companies House on the 15 May 2024. 3.6.2. This organisation has been established as a constituted vehicle to drive forward the ambitions of the applicant to develop more rugby activity in the East Kilbride area and cater for the demand which exists. The existing EKRFC already operate a successful operation at Calderglen Country Park in East Kilbride. 3.7. Project 3.7.1. The proposal is for EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd to use the facility for the furtherance of rugby within the East Kilbride Community and enable the club to see through its plans for increased youth participation, female involvement and additional resource for rugby for the disabled in conjunction with EK Disabled sports group. 3.7.2 EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd has worked closely with the existing Friends of Dunedin group who have led community involvement on the site for a number of years. Friends of Dunedin are supportive of the application and recognise the benefits it will bring to users and local residents and the group will continue to work alongside Friends of Dunedin and support their projects in tandem. 3.7.3. The organisation is newly established for the purpose of the CAT and there is no tangible information to confirm the financial viability. However, it has a number of trustees who have been involved in the successful operation of EKRFC for some time and bring a range of skills and knowledge that should provide a firm base for future development. 4. Assessment 4.1. The property is suitable for the proposed use and through its affiliation with East Kilbride RFC the organisation has the capacity and funds to manage the facility. The group propose to utilise existing club funds for initial outlay and a portion of the membership income on an ongoing basis to cover ongoing costs. 4.2. The lease will enable the facility to re-open and relieve the Council of empty property costs and site maintenance, currently undertaken by Grounds Services. The club would be expected to take on the property in its current condition and take responsibility for any costs of recommissioning. 4.3. The Council has no alternative operational requirement for the subjects and the planning zoning, site configuration and lease use clause would safeguard the value in terms of any alternative proposal. The risks of the transfer are considered low, however, should the lease prove unsustainable for EKRFC Dunedin Project Ltd, the 96
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Council will have the ability to resume full ownership and consider the future of the property. 4.4 A community benefit assessment was carried out by the community asset transfer working group which gave a score of 100%, indicating that the community benefit was deemed excellent. 5. Proposal 5.1. It is proposed to lease Dunedin Pitches and Pavilion to EKRFC Dunedin Project Limited, on the following principal terms and conditions:- 1. the lease will be to the EKRFC Dunedin Project Limited 2. the lease will be for a period of 50 years, with agreed break options 3. the date of entry to be agreed 4. the rental shall be £1 5. the lease to be fully repairing and insuring 6. the tenants will pay the buildings insurance costs as charged by the Council. 7. the tenants will be required to obtain and exhibit as required public liability insurance to the value of £5 million for any one claim 8. the property will be used as a sports pavilion and pitches 9. the tenants to be responsible for any rates or property charges resulting from their occupation and use of the subjects 10. assignation and subletting will not be allowed 11. landlord's consent will be required for any structural alterations to the property. 12. each party to be responsible for their own legal costs, however, the tenants will require to pay any registration fees and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) if required 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. The lease will result in a saving in void property costs including empty rates, insurance and utility standing charges and repairs and maintenance. In addition, it will enable a saving in grounds maintenance costs for South Lanarkshire Council. 8 Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no issues in relation to climate change, sustainability and the environment contained within this report. 9. Other Implications 9.1. In terms of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, the Council initially had until 16 February 2025 to make a decision. 9.2. The organisation had a right to appeal to Scottish Ministers should a decision not be made in that timescale, if the asset transfer request was refused or the organisation did not agree with the proposed terms and conditions. However, the group have agreed to a request to extend the deadline until 26 February 2025 to allow the matter to be considered at the Housing and Technical Resource Committee meeting. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. Consultation has taken place with the Community Participation Team, Legal Services and Community and Enterprise Resources. 97
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10.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function, or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 20 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Caring, connected, sustainable communities. Previous References ♦ None List of Background Papers Application and supporting documents via Planning Portal ref CAT/24/0008 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 98
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Appendix 1 13 99
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Raploch Pitches and Pavilion, Larkhall – Community Asset Transfer to Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise the Committee of the request for a lease of Raploch Pitches and Pavilion, by Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club and seek approval to the principal terms and conditions as set out in Section 5 of the report [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the subjects at Raploch Pitches and Pavilion, Burnbrae Road, Larkhall, ML9 1AL be leased to Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in conjunction with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the lease and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which are in the best interests of the Council. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. The subjects at Raploch Pitches and Pavilion were previously managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC). However, SLLC created a sub-lease with the Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club, allowing them to maintain the pitches and site themselves. This arrangement was reached following a proposal by SLLC to close the changing pavilion due to it being at end of life and the club wishing to continue themselves to keep the pavilion functional. This arrangement has been harmonious and SLLC are fully supportive of the proposed transfer and the organisation’s capacity. 3.2. Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club wish to continue to operate the facility to develop youth football and promote advancement of public participation in football through the provision of mainstream non-competitive and competitive youth football. 3.3. The Club submitted a request for Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of Raploch Pitches and Pavilion, the validation date for which was 15 July 2024. A Public consultation ran from 15 July until 13 August 2024. One comment was received during this period which was designated as being neutral. It supported the groups aspiration but raised some concern about parking during periods of high demand. 14 101
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3.4. The request was placed before the CAT Assessment Panel on 20 January 2025 when the following matters were taken into consideration. 3.5. Property 3.5.1. The extent of the property is shown on Appendix 1 to the report and comprises of a stone changing pavilion, pre-fabricated toilet block, two 11 a side pitches and one 7 a side pitch. The buildings are in a poor state of repair, while the pitches are maintained to a high standard. 3.5.2. As there is no proposed change of use or development, planning consent will not be required for continued use. Relevant warrants and consent will need sought as and when the Club proposes to rebuild the pavilion. 3.6. Organisation 3.6.1. Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club is a 2 tier Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), registered number SC052983, having registered this entity with the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), on 5 December 2023. 3.6.2. The organisation has been established as a constituted vehicle to drive forward the ambitions of the applicant to redevelop the site. Prior to becoming a SCIO, Larkhall Thistle FC operated under a community football constitution for over 25 years. 3.7. Project 3.7.1. The proposal is for Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club to continue to manage the facility as a going concern for the development of youth football and incrementally invest in the facility to redevelop the pavilion, introduce an artificial pitch and improve parking and security. 3.7.2. The Council have let a small area of land within the curtilage of the site to Larkhall Men’s Shed. This was done in conjunction with the applicant who recognises the benefit of serving the wider community and the Club propose to collaborate with them to maximise the use of resources, experience and networking. 3.7.3. The organisation is newly established for purpose, however, accounts for previous entity show a positive bank balance. It incurred a loss of £6223.23 during the last financial year due to renewing equipment, new leases on grounds equipment and consultancy and professional advice, in relation to this project. The club normally makes a small amount of profit which is generally carried forward. 3.7.4. The applicant has produced a business plan, which recognises local priorities and confirmation of need. To achieve their end aims, a significant amount of grant funding will be required, the approval of this longer lease will make that possible. 4. Assessment 4.1. The property is suitable for the proposed use and the organisation has the capacity and funds to manage the facility. 4.2. The lease will enable the Club to continue to operate the facility and continue to remove liability for the Council in property costs and grounds maintenance. In addition, the lease will allow the Club to pursue external funding for the development of the facility. 102
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4.3. The Council has no alternative operational requirement for the subjects and the planning zoning, restricted vehicular access, site configuration and lease use clause would safeguard the value in terms of any alternative proposal. The risks of the transfer are considered low, however, should the lease prove unsustainable for Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club, the Council will have the ability to resume full ownership and consider the future of the property. 4.4. A community benefit assessment was carried out by the CAT working group which gave a score of 90%, indicating that the community benefit was deemed excellent. 5. Proposal 5.1. It is proposed to lease Raploch Pitches and Pavilion, Burnbrae Road, Larkhall to Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club, on the following principal terms and conditions:- the lease will be to the Larkhall Thistle Community Football Club the lease will be for a period of 25 years with agreed break options the date of entry to be agreed the rental shall be £1 the lease to be fully repairing and insuring the tenants will pay the buildings insurance costs as charged by the Council the tenants will be required to obtain and exhibit as required public liability insurance to the value of £5 million for any one claim the property will be used as a sports pavilion and pitches the tenants to be responsible for any rates or property charges resulting from their occupation and use of the subjects assignation and subletting will not be allowed landlord's consent will be required for any structural alterations to the property. each party to be responsible for their own legal costs, however, the tenants will require to pay any registration fees and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) if required 6. Employee Implications 6.1. There are no employee implications associated with this report. 7. Financial Implications 7.1. The lease will result in a saving in void property costs including empty rates, insurance and utility standing charges and repairs and maintenance. In addition, it will enable a saving in grounds maintenance costs for South Lanarkshire Council. 7.2. The property has an estimated capital receipt value in the order of £40,000 - £50,000. 8 Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no issues in relation to climate change, sustainability and the environment contained within this report. 9. Other Implications 9.1. In terms of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, the Council initially had until 16 January 2025 to make a decision. However, the group have agreed to a request to extend the deadline until 26 February 2025 to allow the matter to be considered at the Housing and Technical Resource Committee meeting. 103
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9.2. The organisation has a right to appeal to Scottish Ministers should a decision not be made in that timescale, if the asset transfer request is refused or the organisation do not agree with the proposed terms and conditions. 10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. Consultation has taken place with the Community Participation Team, Legal Services and Community and Enterprise Resources. 10.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function, or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 20 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Caring, connected, sustainable communities. Previous References ♦ None List of Background Papers Application and supporting documents via Planning Portal ref CAT/24/0008 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 104
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Appendix 1 14 105
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Eastfield Community Hall, Cambuslang – Community Asset Transfer to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- [purpose] advise the Committee of the request for the disposal of Eastfield Community Hall to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee under Community Asset Transfer (CAT) and seek approval to the principal terms and conditions as set out in Section 5 of the report [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the subjects at Eastfield Community Hall, Dukes Road, Cambuslang, G72 7BA, be disposed to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Section 5 of the report; and (2) that the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources), in conjunction with the Head of Administration and Legal Services, be authorised to conclude all matters in respect of the disposal and enter into the necessary legal agreements on terms which are in the best interests of the Council. [1recs] 3. Background 3.1. Eastfield Community Hall was previously managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC). However, following a review of its business plan, the SLLC Board announced in March 2024 that it could not sustain service delivery from this facility and control was to be returned to the Council. However, the property remained operational, funded by the community fightback fund whilst negotiations took place with the management committee regarding their intentions for the future. 3.2. On 27 March 2024, the Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) had obtained Committee approval for Temporary Delegated Authority to enter annual arrangements with community organisations to take over the management of facilities affected by budget decisions. A request for a 1-year concessionary lease was approved by Delegated Powers on 23 August 2024, which resulted in the management committee taking over day-to day responsibility for this facility pending the submission of a full CAT application. 3.3. The Committee submitted a request for CAT of the hall by sale, the validation date for which was 16 August 2024. Public consultation was undertaken between 16 August and 13 September 2024 and no comments or objections were received. 15 107
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3.4. The request was placed before the CAT Assessment Panel on 20 January 2025 when the following matters were taken into consideration. 3.5. Property 3.5.1. The extent of the property is shown in Appendix 1 to the report and comprises of a single storey steel framed community centre with facing brick outer walls and a pitched tiled roof. Pedestrian access from Dukes Road to the main entrance is via a paved ramp with metal handrails. There is a tarmac surfaced walkway around the building and an external garage/store and a tarmac surfaced car park. 3.5.2. The remainder of the site, which extends to 2,030 square metres (sq m), or thereby, comprises of maintained grassed open space/landscaping and the site is bounded by metal fencing. The building and grounds are in a well-maintained condition and do not require any work of significance to continue to operate. 3.5.3. The property is currently used by the applicant as a community facility for the local community and as there is no proposed change of use or development, planning consent will not be required for continued use. 3.6. Organisation 3.6.1. The organisation is a 2-tier Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) registered number SC053182, having registered this entity with the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) on 12 March 2024. 3.6.2. This organisation has been established as a constituted vehicle to continue operating the hall as a community centre. Historically this facility was community managed with support from South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture who are supportive of the organisation and believe it has the capacity to continue to operate the facility successfully. 3.7. Project 3.7.1. Having successfully operated the facility on an interim basis during the concessionary lease, the proposal is for the Committee to continue to occupy, use and maintain the building in long-term. 4. Assessment 4.1. The property is suitable for the proposed use and the organisation has the capacity and funds to manage the facility. 4.2. The disposal will enable the Management Committee to continue to operate the facility and remove liability for the Council in grounds maintenance. In addition, the sale will allow the Club to pursue external funding for the development of the facility. 4.3. The Council has no alternative operational requirement for the subjects. The risks of the transfer are considered low, as the property is a purpose-built community centre classified as class 10: non-residential institution under the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Scotland) Order and surrounded by land, owned by the Council and zoned as Priority Greenspace and Urban Green network. Therefore, it is not considered that the property has any realistic alternative development potential. 4.4. Within their asset transfer request, Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee requested a 100% discount on the jointly agreed, independent valuation. As the price to be paid reflects the Community Benefit, which has been assessed as very good, and the requirement to seek Best Value in the disposal of a Council 108
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asset, a discount of 80% of the unrestricted market value is recommended. This is a consistent approach adopted in previous sales transactions for properties of a similar nature and reflects the Best Value assessment. 4.5. An independent valuation was prepared by the District Valuer (Valuation Office Agency) which reported:- market value – unrestricted use: the opinion of the market value of the Council’s interest in the property, with vacant possession with regard to the continued use of the building on an unrestricted basis and with regard to potential redevelopment for residential use, is £115,000 (One Hundred and Fifteen Thousand Pounds) as at 1 August 2024 market value - restricted use: The opinion of the market value of the Council’s interest in the property, with vacant possession subject to the special assumption that its use is restricted to a Community Centre is £80,000 (Eighty Thousand Pounds) as at 1 August 2024 5. Proposal 5.1. It is proposed to sell Eastfield Community Hall, Dukes Road, Cambuslang, G72 7BA to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee, on the following principal terms and conditions:- the purchaser will be to Eastfield Community Centre Management Committee the purchase price is £23,000 exclusive of VAT which reflects 80% discount date of Entry to be agreed each party to bear their own Legal Fees the purchaser will be responsible for obtaining planning and any other relevant consents relating to the use and any proposed alterations 6. Employee Implications 6.1. None 7. Financial Implications 7.1. If the sale outlined in this report is approved by committee, it will remove the costs of operating this asset from the limited-period Community Fightback Fund and Renewable Energy that were established by the Council in 2024. 7.2. The sale of the property will generate a Capital Receipt of £23,000 for the Council’s General Services Account. 8 Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 8.1. There are no issues in relation to climate change, sustainability and the environment contained within this report. 9. Other Implications 9.1. In terms of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, the Council has until 16 February 2025 to make a decision. The group have agreed to a request to extend the deadline to allow the matter to be considered at the Housing and Technical Resource Committee meeting. 9.2. The organisation has a right to appeal to Scottish Ministers should a decision not be made in that timescale, if the asset transfer request is refused or the organisation do not agree with the proposed terms and conditions. 109
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10. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 10.1. Consultation has taken place with the Community Participation Team, Legal Services and Community and Enterprise Resources. 10.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function, or strategy and therefore no impact assessment is required. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 20 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient, and transparent Caring, connected, sustainable communities. Previous References ♦ None List of Background Papers Application and supporting documents via Planning Portal ref CAT/24/0008 Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 110
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Appendix 1 15 111
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Report Agenda Item Report to: Housing and Technical Resources Committee Date of Meeting: 26 February 2025 Report by: Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) Subject: Delegated Authority Report – Update 1. Purpose of Report 1.1. The purpose of the report is to:- advise on transactions processed by delegated authority by Property Services during Quarter 3 of 2024/2025 [1purpose] 2. Recommendation(s) 2.1. The Housing and Technical Resources Committee is asked to approve the following recommendation(s):- (1) that the transactions processed by delegated authority by Property Services during Quarter 3 of 2024/2025 be noted. 3. Background 3.1. The Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) has delegated authority to deal with various transactions, including:- ♦ leases of a value up to £50,000 per annum and a maximum period of 20 years ♦ rent reviews up to an increase of £20,000 per annum ♦ disposals up to a value of £200,000 ♦ acquisitions up to a value of £200,000 3.2. Delegated authority reports are prepared by case officers and submitted to the Head of Property Services for approval, once provisional agreement has been reached with the third party. A weekly list of approved reports is published on the Council’s intranet under “Estates Property Transactions”. 3.3. The delegated reports provide authority for officers to progress transactions and, where appropriate, to instruct Legal Services. The receipt of any monies arising from the transactions occurs at a date in the future, once missives have been concluded and any suspensive conditions met. It should be noted that some transactions may never settle. 4. Summary Quarter 3, 2024/2025 4.1. The summary of transactions progressed under delegated authority during Quarter 3 of 2024/2025 is shown in Appendix 1 to the report, column 2, however, can be summarised as follows:- 16 113
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Total number of transactions 75 Total value of lease transactions £59,300 per annum Total value of capital transactions £4,499,971.25 Total number of miscellaneous transactions 5 4.2. The overall profile of the volume and value of transactions during 2024/2025 generally compares with previous years. 5. Employee Implications 5.1. There are no employee implications. 6. Financial Implications 6.1. The rental income to the Council is increased as a result of the new lettings and lease renewals. 6.2. Disposals generate additional capital monies for the Council’s Capital Programme. 6.3. Acquisitions are carried out in accordance with project plans and approved capital budgets, to enable investment programmes to proceed. 7. Climate Change, Sustainability and Environmental Implications 7.1. There are no issues in relation to climate change, sustainability and environment contained within this report. 8. Other Implications 8.1. There is a low risk that the rental and capital receipts identified within these delegated authority reports are not achieved if, for reasons out with the Council’s control, the tenant/ purchaser chooses not to proceed with the transactions. However, Property Services has in place procedures and consultations intended to minimise this risk. 9. Integrated Impact Assessment and Consultation Requirements 9.1. Consultation takes place with the occupying Resource, Planning, Roads and Legal Services, on a transaction by transaction basis as and when required. 9.2. This report does not introduce a new policy, function or strategy or recommend a change to an existing policy, function or strategy and, therefore, no impact assessment is required. Stephen Gibson Executive Director (Housing and Technical Resources) 14 January 2025 Link(s) to Council Values/Priorities/Outcomes Accountable, effective, efficient and transparent Previous References Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 27 November 2024 Housing and Technical Resources Committee, 18 September 2024 114
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List of Background Papers Plans and drawings of the property involved in these transactions can be obtained from the Assets and Estates Team, Property Services Weekly List of Delegated Authority Transactions can be obtained on the Council’s intranet Contact for Further Information If you would like to inspect the background papers or want further information, please contact:- Craig Jardine, Head of Property Services Ext: 4073 (Tel: 01698 454073) email: craig.jardine@southlanarkshire.gov.uk 115
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Appendix 1 Delegated Authority Transactions Transaction Type Quarter 3 2024/2025 No Value Lease Renewal 0 £0 New Lease/ Licence Landlords Consent 11 2 £59,300 £0 Assignation 7 £0 Rent Review 0 £0 Total Revenue 20 £59,300 Disposal 1 £0 Compensation 7 £31,871.25 Wayleave/Servitude 0 £0 Acquisition Title Waiver 42 0 £4,468,100 £0 Total Capital 50 £4,499,971.25 Miscellaneous 5 £14 116