5. DirApp - FINAL - LHS - Cabinet - 30.09.25
North Ayrshire Council · 30 September 2025
Back to Cabinet — 30 September 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 30 September 2025 Cabinet Title: Local Housing Strategy 2023–2028: 2024/25 Progress Update Purpose: To provide Cabinet with an annual update on progress of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 and to seek approval for the update to be submitted to Scottish Government. Recommendation(s): It is proposed that Cabinet: (i) notes the content of this report and progress against the LHS Action Plan, with further details provided in Appendix 1; (ii) approves the addition of the three new actions outlined at para 2.48, with further details provided in Appendix 1; and (iii) approves submission of the LHS update to the Scottish Government. 1. Executive Summary 1.1. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 places a statutory duty on local authorities to produce a Local Housing Strategy that sets out its strategy, priorities, and plans for the delivery of housing and related services. 1.2. The North Ayrshire Local Housing Strategy 2023–2028 was approved by Cabinet on 13 June 2023 and sets out the strategic priorities for tackling housing issues in the area during the five-year period. 1.3. The Local Housing Strategy enables the Council to monitor progress against national and local priorities. It is a statutory requirement for a Local Housing Strategy to be kept under review; the Scottish Government expects all local authorities to review and report on progress annually. 1.4. This report provides an overview on progress made to 31 March 2025 on the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028. 1.5. Cabinet is invited to note the contents of the report; approve the addition of the three new actions outlined at para 2.48, with further details provided in Appendix 1; and approve submission of the LHS update 2024/25 to the Scottish Government. 2. Background 2.1. The Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 sets out local authorities’ duties to prepare a Local Housing Strategy which details the Council’s strategy, priorities, and plans for the delivery of housing and related services. The 2001 Act states that the Local Housing Strategy must be: • supported by an assessment of housing provision, including the need and demand for housing-related services;
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• submitted to Scottish Ministers; and • kept under review by the Council. 2.2. The Scottish Government expects all local authorities to review and report on progress annually. 2.3. The North Ayrshire Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 was approved by Cabinet on 13 June 2023 and sets out the strategic ambition for Housing in North Ayrshire: “we want all our people to live in the right homes, in great places, with access to any support services they need”. Four overarching outcomes were developed to achieve this ambition, which align to our Council Plan and the four key strategies in the Scottish Government’s ‘Housing to 2040’ vision: • Outcome 1: More homes at the heart of great places – Our places support thriving and inclusive communities; • Outcome 2: Affordability and choice – Our people have affordable homes in the places they choose to live; • Outcome 3: Affordable warmth and zero emissions – Our homes are energy efficient and release less emissions; • Outcome 4: Improving the Quality of our Homes – Our homes are in good condition and people can access any support services they need. Achievements to Date 2.4. To measure the outcomes of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-28 an action plan was developed (see Appendix 1), with 42 actions each having their own desired outcome and targeted completion date. The strategy is now in its second year of implementation and there have been a number of successes within the action plan to date. These are grouped under each of the approved LHS outcomes noted at paragraph 2.3: Outcome 1 – More homes at the heart of great places 2.5. The Local Housing Strategy aims to support the Council’s Community Wealth Building approach and Regeneration Delivery Plan to make our area more successful for everyone, improving our places, establishing thriving town centres, supporting health and well-being, and providing more opportunities for a better quality of life. Housing can make a strong contribution to regeneration by contributing to positive health outcomes and supporting a sense of community. During 2024/25 the Council utilised its role as a major house builder in North Ayrshire to maximise local employment and training opportunities. For example, two modern apprentices and a graduate apprentice have been employed at the Council’s Garnock Academy site. The contractor has also delivered a number of employability and career sessions for school children via the Council’s Employability team.
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2.6. A total of 91 new homes were delivered during 2024/25 by the Council and our Registered Social Landlord (RSL) partners, as follows: Development Number of Homes Additional Comments St Mary’s Gardens, Largs 26 This development replaced the former St Mary's Primary School Stanecastle, Irvine 18 This development replaced the former Stanecastle Primary School James McFarlane, Ardrossan 17 This development replaced the former James McFarlane Primary School Laburnum Avenue, Beith 7 Housing regeneration project Newhouse Drive, Kilbirnie 3 Housing regeneration project Garven Road, Stevenston 20 CHA development 2.7. The Council’s new build project at Stanecastle, Irvine (29 homes, 31 units) concluded during April 2025. The Newhouse Drive, Kilbirnie (7 units) and James McFarlane, Ardrossan (19 units) Council projects concluded during May 2025. 2.8. In addition, works are currently underway at the following new Council developments: • Ayrshire Central Hospital, Irvine (202 units) • Garnock Academy, Kilbirnie (50 units) • King’s Arms, Irvine (6 units) 2.9. The Council developments listed above contribute to the Council’s latest commitment to deliver 1,643 new homes. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025-2030, approved by Cabinet on 3 December 2024, sets out the Council and its partners commitment to deliver new affordable homes in North Ayrshire, supporting the Scottish Government’s target to deliver 110,000 new affordable homes by 2032. The revised SHIP 2026-2031 will be presented to Cabinet on 28 October 2025. 2.10. Private developers delivered 280 new homes during 2024/25 at active sites, bringing the number of units delivered by the private sector to 528 since April 2023. Development is underway at all five new sites allocated by LDP2, which together will deliver over 1,000 private sector homes in addition to other active sites including Montgomerie Park and West Byrehill. Planning Services submitted the Draft Delivery Programme to Scottish Government on 8 April 2025 - setting out actions required to deliver sites within the housing land supply - and are progressing towards finalising the 2025/26 Housing Land Audit and Delivery Programme, which will be published following its approval alongside the LDP Evidence Report. Outcome 2 – Affordability and choice
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2.11. The Scottish housing system is under significant pressure, with the Scottish Government having declared a national Housing Emergency on 15 May 2024 and 13 local authorities having declared their own housing emergencies due to the unprecedented pressure to meet their statutory responsibilities towards homeless people and other priority groups in housing need. On 2 September 2025, the Scottish Government published its Housing Emergency Action Plan, with three main areas of focus: • Ending children living in unsuitable accommodation. • Supporting the housing needs of vulnerable communities; and • Building our future - maximising investment in Scotland’s housing sector. Whilst there is increasing pressure on the North Ayrshire housing system, a range of effective measures are underway, including increasing housing supply, and managing the demand from homeless people by way of temporary and permanent accommodation. Details of the housing development programme and homelessness prevention achievements to date, and further work planned during 2025/26 are outlined elsewhere in this report. 2.12. North Ayrshire Council established the Arran Housing Task Force (AHTF) in 2022 to quantify demand for affordable housing on Arran and identify issues that may be limiting economic growth. A quantitative study was undertaken to determine affordable housing demand on the island, recognising the assessed housing demand information from the North Ayrshire Housing Register and community feedback. Following the study, the AHTF recognised areas that required further analysis, and the Arran Housing Survey was developed and launched on 31 January 2025. The survey looked for responses from Arran households, employees/employers on the island, landlords, second homeowners, empty homeowners, short-term let owners, and those wishing to move to the island, to help shape future housing provision on the island. Following the survey’s closure on 14 April 2025, the results are currently being analysed by the Council’s Housing Strategy Team and will be presented to the AHTF in late 2025. The survey report will require formal sign off by the AHTF and will be published thereafter, with the AHTF action plan amended to reflect the outcomes. The AHTF membership includes the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, local community groups, and Arran registered social landlords. 2.13. When the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP) was implemented in 2019, a target was set for North Ayrshire to create 100 Housing First tenancies over a five-year period. At end of 2023/24, we had exceeded the target by creating 103 tenancies and by the end of 2024/25 we have successfully created 123 tenancies. Within current budget constraints, we plan to create a further 20 tenancies per annum over the next four years. 2.14. The Private Sector Advice and Homelessness teams are piloting an approach where a homeless presentation is due to the tenant being served a Notice to Leave by their landlord. The Private Sector Advice team contact the landlord to either mediate or encourage the landlord to use our landlord-to-landlord sales service with the intention that the tenant can remain in the property. The pilot
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outcomes will be reviewed with the expectation that the service can be further evolved to ensure we are supporting private tenants within our communities. 2.15. It is recognised that purchasing ex-local authority stock is an effective way to increase social housing stock and provide value for money for the investment made - the current SHIP 2025-2030 has increased the Council’s buyback scheme to 60 properties by 2030. The Council’s developing Registered Social Landlord partners have buyback programmes within the SHIP, aiming to acquire a further 29 new homes. Due to current housing market conditions, it has been more challenging to acquire homes that are marketed for sale. As a result, a new Housing Acquisition Strategy is under preparation (see LHS Action 32) and will be presented to Cabinet during 2025/26, to identify potentially new and innovative approaches, ensure that the Council continues to meet housing need across North Ayrshire, funding is maximised and value for money is demonstrated across the various funding streams. 2.16. During 2024/25 Trust Housing Association acquired two homes on Arran through the Rural Affordable Homes for Key Workers Fund, which is available until 2028. The Council and RSLs continue to work in partnership to identify suitable properties that can be bought back using the Rural Affordable Homes for Key Workers Fund, to increase the affordable housing stock available on our islands. 2.17. The ‘Housing and Care Leaver Protocol’ sets out how North Ayrshire HSCP and Housing Services will work together to achieve the best possible housing outcomes for care leavers. The protocol has recently been reviewed and enhancements made, as part of the Brighter Pathways programme. Senior Housing Officers will continue to carry out enhanced housing options interviews with care leavers to ensure their housing needs are met and they are supported to sustain their tenancies. Between April 2024 and March 2025, secure tenancies were allocated to 14 North Ayrshire care leavers. Outcome 3 – Affordable warmth and zero emissions 2.18. At the design and planning stage for each new build Council development identified in the SHIP, an options appraisal is carried out to determine the most appropriate sustainability measures required to reduce fuel poverty for tenants, as well as contributing towards the Council’s net zero target. 2.19. Our most recent developments incorporate air source heat pumps alongside enhanced fabric measures and solar PV panels. An assessment was carried out for each site and measured to ensure property running costs were affordable for our tenants while contributing to our net zero target. 2.20. As part of the capital programme for investment for existing stock, solar PV and external wall insulation has been included in the re-roofing and re-rendering measured term contracts where appropriate, to ensure tenants benefit from a better insulated home, reduced heat loss and the ability to utilise solar panels to reduce utility bills.
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2.21. North Ayrshire Council responded to Scottish Government’s consultation on the new and emerging Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) in February 2024. The new standard is likely to require increased fabric performance and replacement of ‘polluting’ heating systems with ‘clean’ heating systems in our housing stock. The proposals have significant implications for the Council’s housing asset management approach and 30-year HRA Business Plan, including cyclical replacement of heating systems and other fabric elements e.g., window, roof, and insulation programmes. 2.22. A pathfinder project is in progress to review the financial, technical and customer implications associated with the emerging standard. The project focuses on the traditional housing stock built between 1945 and 1960, which makes up approximately 75% of the stock profile. The initial properties have been surveyed; the appointed external architects (MAST) have issued their recommendations and will agree a proposed scheme of works for each property. A suitable contractor is currently being procured to provide monitoring within the properties, with a budget of £0.550m allocated for this project. 2.23. The Area Based Scheme (ABS) continues to deliver energy efficiency and low carbon technology to private sector households, in hard-to-treat areas. During 2024/25 this targeted scheme was focused on improving affordable warmth in island properties i.e. Arran and Great Cumbrae, whilst providing roof mounted solar PV to properties in the Kilwinning area where ABS has previously been used to install external wall insulation. 2.24. Council officers has been working in partnership with Green Home Systems, an Irvine based company, to access ECO4 Flex funding, and through this partnership have installed 134 measures, such as ASHP, solar PV, loft, room in roof, internal wall and cavity wall insulation, boiler upgrades, first time central heating and TRVs, in 32 properties, generating over £0.900m of additional funding into North Ayrshire. 2.25. The Council offers Energy Smart emergency support payments for those vulnerable to fuel debt, to support a reduction in fuel poverty. Grants totalling £0.123m were released during 2024/25. 2.26. A comprehensive process map has been developed to ensure issues with damp and mould are effectively addressed. The core elements of this process have already been implemented and further elements, such as an expansion in the use of electronic monitoring, are currently being explored. Tenant engagement has been increased, with regular information provided via corporate social media channels. These measures will ensure that the Council is well prepared for the anticipated introduction of Awaab’s Law as part of the forthcoming Housing (Scotland) Bill. Outcome 4 – Improving the quality of our homes 2.27. The latest Housing Asset Management Plan (HAMP) was approved by Cabinet in September 2023, and complements the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 approved by Cabinet in June 2023. The HAMP is currently being refreshed and
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will be presented to Cabinet on 28 October 2025. The HAMP aims to ensure the Council’s housing stock is maintained in a condition compliant with existing and proposed legislation and building standards. Progress on the action plan is reported to the Housing Asset Management Board (HAMB) on a bi-monthly basis to ensure appropriate governance mechanisms are in place to support the delivery of the action plan. 2.28. The Estate Based Regeneration Programme (EBRP) continues to deliver projects to address pockets of low demand stock; antisocial behaviour; external appearance; parking provision; road and footpath condition; fencing; landscaping; and general grounds maintenance issues. During 2024/25, there has been successful delivery of an additional 16 new in-curtilage parking spaces at NAC properties, rehoming of tenants and purchase of 3 properties to allow future works to progress at low demand flatted blocks, external improvement works at two blocks of amenity bungalows, major repair works to a Housing owned footbridge, a significant fencing programme, and some smaller improvement projects. 2.29. The Sheltered Housing Reprovisioning Programme has delivered the refurbishment of Barnett Court, Saltcoats, which was completed in January 2024 and works at Cheviot Court, Irvine, completed in November 2024. Work is anticipated to commence at Vineburgh Court, Irvine and Laigh Court, Beith during spring 2026. These two complexes will be supplied by a Bivalent heating and hot water system, which is a combination of ASHP and a gas back-up. Officers are currently preparing a heating strategy for the remainder of the complexes on the programme. 2.30. The Customer Participation Strategy 2023-28 was approved by Cabinet in June 2023. In 2024/25, membership within our Service Improvement Groups increased, 25 consultations took place, and our tri-annual Tenant Satisfaction Survey was conducted. The Redburn Grove Gypsy/ Travellers Tenants group became a Registered Tenant Organisation. Areas of Future Focus 2.31. Priorities that require further action, and will be implemented during the remaining lifespan of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028, are as follows: Outcome 1 – More homes at the heart of great places 2.32. As reported to Cabinet on 3 December 2024, in May 2024 Scottish Government advised that the North Ayrshire Resource Planning Assumption (RPA) for 2024/25 would be significantly reduced compared to the funding level previously indicated, with further reductions anticipated in later years. On 4 December 2024, Scottish Government announced a draft £768m budget for the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, which reinstated the funding for 2025/26. 2.33. The Council is currently in the process of developing the SHIP 2026-31, including future Resource Planning Assumptions, pending formal notification of
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the 2026/27 North Ayrshire Resource Planning Assumption anticipated in spring 2026. Officers are also working with external partners to explore alternative and additional mechanisms to support affordable housing delivery. Outcome 2 – Affordability and choice 2.34. A review of the North Ayrshire Common Housing Register (NAHR) Allocation Policy has recently been completed to ensure that it aligns to emerging issues, incorporating national and local priorities. Following consultation with applicants, tenants, tenants’ groups, and key stakeholders, the NAHR partners have successfully undertaken and concluded remodelling requirements to assess the potential scale of impact for the proposed changes to the allocation of housing. The draft North Ayrshire Housing Allocation Policy (NAHAP) has been reviewed by NAHR partners and is scheduled to be presented to Cabinet on 30 September 2025. 2.35. North Ayrshire Council experienced increasing levels of homelessness and a significant increase in demand for temporary accommodation in 2024/25, putting additional pressure on general housing supply. The North Ayrshire Homelessness Taskforce, comprising of the Council and a range of stakeholders, provides the governance framework for the delivery of the North Ayrshire Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan, inclusive of Housing First. The partners are currently working to understand the homelessness risk factors affecting each of the partner organisations with a role in homelessness prevention in North Ayrshire. The findings from this work are being used to develop the North Ayrshire Homelessness Strategy, aligned to the proposed new homelessness prevention duties detailed within the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024. 2.36. Of the 1,184 homeless cases in 2024/25, 171 (14.4%) individuals reported to be fleeing domestic violence in comparison with 133 in 2023/24. Of the 171, 142 (83%) were females. In early 2025, the Violence Against Women Partnership was re-established, to bring relevant partners back together to discuss individual and collective actions in response to national policy and local challenges. This action was supported by confirmation of a new VAW Lead Officer post which is currently being recruited. Development of the North Ayrshire VAW Strategy and Action Plan will be aligned to the Delivering Equally Safe National Strategy. 2.37. Following the successful implementation of the Redburn Grove Tenants and Residents Association (TARA), further engagement work and an associated action plan requires to be developed to fully identify the needs and aspirations of Gypsy Travellers, reflecting on feedback from the recent Gypsy/Traveller Satisfaction Survey. This will not be isolated to Redburn Grove and will include the management and engagement opportunities when dealing with unauthorised encampments. 2.38. On 3 June 2025, Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Redburn Grove redevelopment within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026-2031, which will be considered by Cabinet on 30 September 2025.
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2.39. Housing Services are working to develop an inter-agency hospital discharge pathway to minimise the risk of homelessness on discharge from hospital. Through collaboration with partners, we are developing the pathway that will recognise the proposed “Ask” and “Act” recommendations within the Housing Bill. The pathway will promote partnership working and encourage early intervention to prevent homelessness and ensure the housing needs of patients are identified on admittance. 2.40. Working in partnership with East and South Ayrshire Council, a prison discharge outreach service is delivered from within HMP Prison Kilmarnock to offer advice and assistance to those threatened with homelessness on release. In addition, the North Ayrshire Homelessness Task Force has developed a Prison Discharge Protocol aligned to the national ‘Sustainable Housing on Release for Everyone’ (SHORE) standards, to minimise the risk of crisis for people being released from prison. The protocol is currently being revised. During 2024/25, 63 individuals approached for homeless assistance following prison discharge, which accounts for 5.3% of all approaches. During 2023/24, 77 individuals were homeless following prison discharge, which accounted for 7% of all approaches. 2.41. Further analysis is required to determine trends and areas for improvement in relation to homelessness tenancy sustainment. In 2023/24 the average number of weeks spent in temporary accommodation was 16.4 (115 days) for cases closed. In 2024/25 this has decreased to 15.8 weeks (111 days). A review of the Housing Allocation Policy and supporting practices is currently being undertaken to ensure that the use of Council housing stock is optimised to meet the needs of tenants and applicants. Outcome 3 – Affordable warmth and zero emissions 2.42. The Social Housing Net Zero Standard (SHNZS) mentioned previously at paragraph 2.21 is anticipated to be implemented during 2026, although the exact implementation date has yet to be confirmed by Scottish Government. Similar to many other local authorities and registered social landlords, the Council’s 30-year HRA business plan is under significant pressure. Whilst an increase in emission standards is expected and the HRA Business Plan includes a budget allocation for energy efficient improvements and heating systems replacement, it is recognised that this will not be sufficient to fully retrofit our existing stock. 2.43. In anticipation of the new SHNZS standards, the Council has appointed a contractor to undertake a pathfinder project to fully understand the financial, technical and tenant implications of complying with zero emissions targets. A sample of properties have been identified to include a range of different property types with tenant consultation underway. A whole house approach to retrofit will be undertaken to implement a range of energy efficiency and decarbonisation measures across Council housing stock to ensure legislative requirements are met. The project will also consider dampness and mould to inform the future approach in dealing with these issues, with a specific focus on
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the use of electronic monitoring. A report with findings and recommendations will be prepared during 2025 for further consideration. Outcome 4 – Improving the quality of our homes 2.44. Whilst The Council awaits the outcome of the Scottish Government consultation on SHNZS, our Pathfinder project is underway and will see physical works conducted during 2025 and 2026; this will inform the Council’s longer-term strategy in relation to SHNZS. Alongside this, our Capital Programmes continue to deliver improvements to our stock through investment in Solar PV/EWI and upgraded central heating systems. Progress in this area will continue to be reported through our regular Joint Budget Meetings, HAMB and Scottish Government returns. 2.45. Actions taken to improve access (e.g., an end-to-end process review; higher application of the access policy; additional staff resources) have seen an improvement in statutory compliance. In 2025/2026, the Council will continue its statutory compliance delivery, similar to that used in 2024/2025 where we saw increased utilisation of our forced access policy and increased financial resources to create a dedicated compliance team. This saw substantial improvement in both gas safety and Electrical Installation Condition Report compliance, which we wish to sustain. 2.46. A Housing Evidence Paper, prepared to inform the preparation of the LDP Evidence Report, was published in December 2024 and reissued in March 2025 for stakeholder comments. The paper considers the requirement for a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector, noting that the Government has committed to a new ‘Scottish Accessible Homes Standard’ which will be part of national building standards by 2025/26. The accessible standard will see accessibility designed and built into all new homes, increasing the housing choices for people with disabilities and reducing the need for expensive retrofitting as people age or their needs change. The Council will review our stakeholder comments and will complete the Evidence Report by setting out the evidence and position on establishing a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector. 2.47. The Scheme of Assistance (for private sector housing) is currently being reviewed to include the changes to the Repairing Standard, which came into force on 1 March 2024, and the promotion of positive outcomes for people living with autism in the private housing sector. An action plan for consultation and engagement will be prepared thereafter. New Actions 2.48. To ensure the Local Housing Strategy 2023-28 continues to deliver on the outcomes set out for North Ayrshire, three new actions have been developed for adoption within the Strategy. These additional actions have their own desired outcomes and target dates for achieving the desired outcomes. The additional actions are as follows:
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LHS_02. Develop Local Housing Plans to better understand the needs of our neighbourhoods in North Ayrshire. Developing local housing plans is an important way to ensure that neighbourhoods grow in a way that meets community needs while balancing affordability and sustainability. The aim is to develop housing plans for each locality which will identify and support the needs of current and future residents of North Ayrshire and reflect a ‘whole system approach’ as part of the recently announced Collaboration for Health Equity in Scotland and work to tackle child poverty as part of the Fairer Futures Partnership. LHS_03. Collaborate with the Scottish Government to end the national housing emergency. While there are acute housing pressures locally, a housing emergency has not been declared in North Ayrshire. However, work is ongoing to support the Scottish Government in ending the national housing emergency. Following Scottish Government’s release of the Housing Emergency Action Plan on 2 September 2025, we are currently assessing the Council’s position against the national actions, with the aim of relieving current pressures and preventing North Ayrshire Council from requiring to declare a housing emergency in the future. LHS_04. Ensure the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024 legislation is embedded in all our policies and procedures. The Scottish Government introduced the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024 to Parliament on 26 March 2024 to deliver its rented sector strategy, A New Deal for Tenants, and some policy ideas for housing as set out in Housing to 2040, while also seeking to deliver on an ambition to end homelessness. The Bill makes changes in the law in relation to housing and the changes cover protections for tenants, preventing homelessness, and other housing matters. The Bill is at Stage 3 of the process, prior to becoming an Act of Parliament. At Stage 3, MSPs can propose further amendments to the Bill, and these are debated and decided on in the Debating Chamber. Officers will continue to monitor and review the amendments agreed at stage 3, with all legislative changes implemented in North Ayrshire as required. 3. Proposals 3.1. It is proposed that Cabinet: i. notes the content of this report and progress against the LHS Action Plan to 31 March 2025; ii. approves the addition of the three new actions outlined at para 2.48 and detailed in Appendix 1; iii. approves the submission of the LHS update to the Scottish Government. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial
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4.1. Any financial implications arising from the current projects and initiatives included within the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 are reflected within existing capital and revenue budgets. Business cases will be developed to support emerging new initiatives, as required. Human Resources 4.2. The Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 is delivered by North Ayrshire Council officers and relevant external partners, and is complemented by external expertise, where required. Legal 4.3. The development and monitoring of the Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028, which sets out its priorities and plans for the delivery of housing and related services in North Ayrshire, ensures compliance with the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4. The provision of good quality housing through the actions set out in the Local Housing Strategy 2023-28 has a positive impact upon older people, children, younger people, people with disabilities and households in fuel poverty. There are no negative or discriminatory effects on any of the equality groups as a result of the implementation of the strategy. Climate Change and Carbon 4.5. The Local Housing Strategy continues to support the Sustainable North Ayrshire Strategy 2024 - 2027, which aims to eradicate fuel poverty and achieve net-zero carbon status by 2030. Key Priorities 4.6. The Local Housing Strategy continues to support the Council Plan strategic priorities: ‘Wellbeing;’ ‘Climate Change;’ ‘A Sustainable Council;’ and ‘Communities and Local Democracy.’ There is evidence that children and young people can benefit from improved cognitive development and a reduction in behavioural issues through living in a more attractive, warmer, and better ventilated environment. The strategy also aims to support our island communities and their economies. Community Wealth Building 4.7. A number of the initiatives detailed within the Local Housing Strategy continue to result in North Ayrshire Community Benefits through training and employment opportunities delivered through the Council’s house building programme; the wider Strategic Housing Investment Plan; Sheltered Housing reprovisioning programme; and the Estate Based Regeneration programme.
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Islands Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) 4.8. The Local Housing Strategy recognises that there are unique impacts faced by our islands and includes measures to address them. Some policy interventions will be specifically tailored to our islands, to ensure our islands communities enjoy the same opportunities as those living on the mainland. United Nations Rights of the Child (UNCRC) 4.9. The Local Housing Strategy affects children and young people indirectly. The following groups of children and young people have been identified as those potentially affected by the Local Housing Strategy: • From low-income households • Living in deprived areas • At risk of homelessness or homeless • Victims of domestic abuse/part of a family affected by domestic abuse • Looked after/accommodated children and young people • Care experienced young people/young people leaving care • Those with a protected characteristic Consumer Duty 4.10. ‘None’ Consultation 5.1 The 2024/25 update on LHS 2023-2028 has been prepared by gathering information from various project leads across Council Services, as well as partner RSLs. David W. Hammond Executive Director (Communities & Housing) For further information please contact Fiona Ellis, Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development), on 01294 324031. Background Papers Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 Customer Participation Strategy 2023-2028 Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2025-2030 Tackling Scotland’s Housing Emergency Housing (Scotland) Bill as amended at Stage 2
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 1 Collaboration LHS_01. Review and update our Tenant Participation Strategy to: • Ensure inclusive engagement with hard-to-reach groups • Ensure our literature is available in a format that is suitable for people with literacy and / or sensory / communication issues Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to A refreshed Tenant Participation Strategy is adopted by the Cabinet of North Ayrshire Council Housing Services Customer Participation Strategy 2023- 2028 was approved by Cabinet on 13 June 2023 where three key priorities were approved. For 2024 the following took place: Priority 1 – Engage and Inform • Tenant Satisfaction survey carried out by Knowledge Partnership on behalf of North Ayrshire Council’s Housing Service (NAC). Action Plan devised, staff and North Ayrshire Network informed of results. • 1932 tenants are currently on the Tenant Panel. A decrease of 35 since Q4 figure of 1967. • Annual Return on Charter agreed and approved by tenants at meeting held on 27/05/2025 with members of the North Ayrshire Network, North Ayrshire Inspection Panel and Service Improvement Groups. • We have 6145 followers on Facebook. This is a decrease of eight followers in this quarter from 6153 in Q4. • We have 686 followers on X. This is a decrease of four since the last quarter • Utilised Libraries App and Care Experienced App to improve communication to customers and include Housing Services information • 25 consultations events were held throughout 2024- 25 • Tenants Chat newsletter issued quarterly • Implement Tenant Satisfaction survey action plan • Engage with seldom heard groups to ensure all communities have a voice by developing a new North Ayrshire Network • Build capacity within communities by offering training sessions. • Review the Customer Participation Strategy 2023-2028 action plan. • Develop Service Improvement Groups and sustain membership • Devise and deliver staff Virtual Events covering Customer Participation and Consultation 2023+ 31 March 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 2 • Annual Performance Matters newsletter issued September 2024 • 1 Welfare Reform Messenger Session 19/06/2025 • Utilised Libraries App to include Housing Services information • Utilised Care Experienced App to include Housing Services Information • Social media messenger sessions hosted covering rent arrears, Welfare Reform and housing support • Estate management inspections carried out in all areas where Tenant Groups are in operation annually • Rent consultation carried out December 2024 with 1473 responses received. This was a 158 increase on the previous year’s 1315 and the best response we’ve had to a rent consultation. Priority 2 – Empower and Influence TARA meetings have taken place with Redburn Grove, Hayocks, Saltcoats High Flats, Castlepark and Bourtreehill & Broomlands • Developed Redburn Grove Gypsy/Travellers Tenants Group to become a Registered Tenants Organisation • Attendance at quarterly Sheltered Housing Complex meetings • A review of the Information Supplied Tenant Inspection Panel findings and action plan delivery • Six working group meetings took place with the NAN, Editorial Panel, Major Works Working Group, Tenant Event Group and Tenant Inspection Panel. • Tenant-led scrutiny training provided by the Tenant Participation Manager to the Tenant Inspection Panel • Newly recruited Service Improvement Group members have been trained in Tenant Participation by the Tenant Participation Manager • Capacity building within communities by offering a suite of 15 training sessions, including Keeping Safe Online; Scam Awareness; Financial Advice; Report
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 3 Writing; Tenant Participation Refresher; Microsoft Teams Refresher; etc. • Reviewed NAC staff iLearn Customer Participation module • Digital methods of contact developed to include SMS text messaging Priority 3 Evolve and Innovate • Increased membership within Service Improvement Groups and Tenant Inspection Panel with 20 new recruits joining • Developed partnership working with stakeholders and other agencies. • Coordination and delivery support of Saltcoats High Flats Coffee Morning event • Sharing good practice presentation delivery at Scotland's Housing Network – Community & Resident Engagement Community of Practice on 18/06/2025 • Attendance at People Strategy Network meetings in Dalry and Beith (June 2025) • Attendance at Cunninghame Housing Association Tenants Conference with 4 NAN representatives 24/06/2025 • Attendance at Cost-of-Living events across North Ayrshire communities • Two-year Customer Involvement Strategy review LHS_02. Develop Local Housing Plans to better understand the needs of our neighbourhoods in North Ayrshire Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Development of local housing plans for each locality/ town to identify and support the Local housing plans are an important way to ensure that neighbourhoods grow in a way that meets community needs, while balancing affordability and sustainability. • Collaborate with key partners to develop LHPs, aligned with forthcoming 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 4 needs of current and future residents of North Ayrshire ‘Locality Profiles’, with further details to be submitted to Cabinet in due course Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_03. Collaborate with the Scottish Government to end the national housing emergency Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to A housing emergency is not declared in North Ayrshire The Scottish housing system is under significant pressure, with the Scottish Government having declared a national Housing Emergency on 15 May 2024 and 13 local authorities having declared their own housing emergencies due to the unprecedented pressure to meet their statutory responsibilities towards homeless people and other priority groups in housing need. On 2 September 2025, the Scottish Government published the Housing Emergency Action Plan with 3 main areas of focus: • Ending children living in unsuitable accommodation; • Supporting the housing needs of vulnerable communities; and • Building our future - maximising investment in Scotland’s housing sector. • Whilst there is increasing pressure on the North Ayrshire housing system, a range of measures are being undertaken across the housing system, including increasing housing supply, and managing the demand from homeless people by way of temporary and permanent accommodation. • Assess North Ayrshire against the Scottish Government’s Housing Emergency Action Plan • Prepare and implement the actions set out by the Scottish Government. • Continue our good partnership working with RSLs when reviewing our lets to homeless 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_04. Ensure the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024 legislation is embedded in all our policies and procedures
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 5 Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The new Housing Act legislation is implemented in North Ayrshire The Scottish Government introduced the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024 to Parliament on 26 March 2024 to deliver its rented sector strategy, A New Deal for Tenants, and some policy ideas for housing as set out in Housing to 2040, while also seeking to deliver on an ambition to end homelessness. The Bill makes changes in the law in relation to housing and the changes cover protections for tenants, preventing homelessness, and other housing matters. The Bill is at Stage 3 of the process prior to becoming an Act. At Stage 3, MSPs can propose further amendments to the Bill, and these are debated and decided on in the Debating Chamber. The six main parts (chapters) to the Bill are: 1. Rent paid by tenants under private residential tenancies 2. Dealing with evictions 3. Keeping pets and making changes to let property 4. Other matters relating to tenants 5. Homeless Prevention 6. Other housing matters • Monitor and review the amendments agreed at Stage 3 • Develop an action plan to embed the legislative changes in North Ayrshire Council’s policies and practices 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) More homes at the heart of great places LHS_05. Use our role as a major house builder to maximise local employment and training opportunities, and encourage our partners to do the same
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 6 Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Training and employment opportunities are available for local people The Council is committed to improving socio-economic and environmental outcomes through community benefits within its procurement activity and has a community benefits policy in place. The policy aligns with Council priorities, most notably those captured in the 2024-2027 Community Wealth Building Strategy and Local Outcome Improvement Plans. Community benefits are mandatory for all Council contracts above £500,000, therefore are included in all social housing development contracts. For example, two modern apprentices and a graduate apprentice have been employed at the Council’s Garnock Academy housebuilding site as at May 2025. The contractor has also delivered a number of employability and career sessions for school children and via the Council’s Employability team. Our Registered Social Landlord (RSL) partners are encouraged to use Community Benefits Clauses in construction and other tenders during scheduled update meetings and at site nomination. • Continue to work with the Employability Team and to further exp-lore joint initiatives and employability opportunities for the wider community. • Continue to collaborate with our contractors to ensure local contractors are utilised where possible. 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration) LHS_06. Deliver 1,643 new units of social housing Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to 1,643 new homes are developed The SHIP 2025-2030 approved at Cabinet 3 December 2024 increased the previous target from 1,641 to 1,643 new homes by 2030. This reflected the addition of the third phase of the St Michael’s Wynd, Kilwinning development, utilising the remaining unallocated regeneration units. 956 new Council homes have been delivered as at 31 March 2025 against the 1,643 target. Despite the affordability challenges faced, 91 new homes were completed by the Council and RSLs during 2024/25. • Work continues on site to progress to deliver 202 units at Ayrshire Central Hospital, Irvine. • Laburnum Avenue, James 2028 31 March 2030 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 7 The Council’s Resource Planning Assumption (RPA) for 2025/26 has been confirmed as £15.878m. The uplifted budget (when compared to the estimate within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2025-2030) will support delivery of prioritised projects and the shadow programme. Officers continue to explore alternative/additional mechanisms to support affordable housing delivery. McFarlane, Stanecastle, King’s Arms & Garnock to complete during 2025/26. • Explore alternative/additi onal mechanisms to support affordable housing delivery. • Deliver remaining programme to achieve 1,643 units by 2030. LHS_07. Deliver 1,300 new units of private sector housing Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to 1,300 new private homes are developed Private developers delivered 280 new homes during 2024/25, bringing the total number of units delivered by the private sector to 528 since April 2023. Development is underway at all five new sites allocated by LDP2, which together will deliver over 1,000 private sector homes in addition to other active sites, including Montgomerie Park and West Byrehill. Successful completion of these and other smaller sites by 31 March 2028 would result in the 1,300-unit target to that date being exceeded. A Draft Delivery Programme was submitted to Scottish Government on 8 April 2025, setting out actions required to deliver sites within the housing land supply. • Continue to work with private developers to deliver 1,300 new private homes target by 2028. • Finalise 2024/25 Housing Land Audit and Delivery Programme (to be published following approval alongside the 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Planning) Strategic Planning Manager
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 8 LDP Evidence Report) LHS_08. Consider opportunities to provide homes in and around our town centres Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Housing is developed in or around town centres, where feasible Work is nearing completion for the Council’s development of 6 amenity flats in Irvine town centre at the former King’s Arms public house. The Council also plans to refurbish a block of flats on Nelson Street, Largs - near the town centre - to provide three new homes. • Deliver further town centre homes, where feasible, during the lifespan of the SHIP. • Continue to work in partnership with the Regeneration Team to identify potential development opportunities. 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Affordability & Choice LHS_09. Enforce a zero tolerance approach to harrassment and abuse against equalities groups Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Every identified incidence of harassment is investigated and actioned All risk assessments/ procedures for lone working have been updated to reflect added caution due to staff experiencing an overall increase in health and safety incidents associated with violence and aggression. From April 2025, Health and Safety Officers will deliver bespoke Personal Safety Training to all Housing Staff. From June 2025, Risk Assessment Training will be made available to staff. In relation to our tenants and communities, our Housing Officers address any issues of harassment or abuse involving our tenants through our Estate Management procedures. • Staff encouraged to log all incidents on Assure System, with debriefing process established. • All incidents outlined within quarterly Health and Safety Action Plan to gain wider perspective and actions taken. 2024 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Neighbourhood Housing)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 9 The Anti-Social Behaviour Investigation Team work directly with Police Scotland to address community issues and cases of tenants that have escalated. We work in partnership with Police Scotland and have a dedicated Police Liaison Officer who provides daily updates of any reported crimes within our tenancies. This Officer also assists with other teams such as the Housing Advice Team for households who advise they are fleeing external harassment. PREVENT Training for Managers has been undertaken to facilitate full participation in Prevent Multi Agency Panel meetings. • All operational staff within Housing Services will undertake PREVENT Awareness training. LHS_10. Train our staff to understand cultural differences and challenges faced by different ethnic groups Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to 100% of our staff are trained All staff have completed their mandatory North Ayrshire Council Equality and Diversity 2025 training module on iLearn. Completion records are recorded centrally on the HR system CHRIS to ensure 100% completion. • New staff members will be asked to complete the mandatory module. All staff will complete the 2026 module once this becomes available. • Internal Learning Event organised on Gypsy Travellers on 10/07/2025 2024 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Mananger (Housing Innovation and Digital Development) LHS_11. Work with national agencies and local partners to ensure refugees, asylum seekers and other displaced people affected by conflict are supported to live in safety in our area Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 10 100% of refugees and people displaced by conflict who are housed in our area received support Our Refugee Support Team continue to work together with the CPP partners to provide high quality support to assist families to integrate into local communities and access vital services to meet their individual needs. Following the successful completion of previous resettlement pledges (2015 – 2025), North Ayrshire Council’s voluntary involvement in UK Government Resettlement programmes (UKRS/ARAP/ACRS) has recently been reviewed and paused for the time being. However, previously settled refugees and people displaced by conflict living within North Ayrshire continue to have access to support services when required. • The Housing Services Refugee Resettlement Transition Strategy 2025-26 has been agreed and is currently being implemented. The Strategy includes an action plan which has been developed to achieve the key actions which will be monitored through the Refugee Resettlement Task Force. • The aims and objectives of the strategy consider the progress made in achieving and supporting ongoing humanitarian resettlement across North Ayrshire’s communities. In addition, they take account the impact of reducing demand for Housing Services 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 11 and responsibly phase out housing support services by 31 March 2026, ensuring continuity for essential needs while identifying non-priority services for cessation in a sustainable and equitable manner. LHS_12. Engage with Gypsy / Travellers to ensure that housing solutions meet their needs Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Gypsy / Travellers needs and aspirations are reflected in all service provision We continue to work with partner services delivering support to the community with MECOPP, Education, Money Matters, NHS, and the Tenant Participation (TP) Team. The TP Team continues to meet with Redburn Residents’ Group each month. In January 2025 the Group held their AGM, with residents showing their support to the group and maintaining positive engagement with NAC to ensure they continue to influence decision-making around site issues. The group gave their feedback to NAC budget engagement, Tenant Satisfaction Survey, and 2025-26 rent consultation. NAC/MECOPP/NHS worked in partnership to deliver services at Redburn, including voicing their concerns to the COVID 19 inquiry. Eglinton Medical Practice offers monthly clinics at Redburn Grove specifically for the Gypsy/Traveller • Action plan to be drafted and agreed, factoring into consideration feedback from the recent Gypsy / Traveller Satisfaction Survey. • Ongoing engagement with the Redburn Grove tenants through monthly meetings of the Redburn Grove Tenants Association and additionally via the Redburn Record newsletter. 2023 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 12 community. Members of the community gain direct access to a General Practitioner in the Redburn Grove Community room. Outreach tutors provide education onsite to Gypsy/Traveller young people every Tuesday in the Redburn grove community room. Currently there are two regular students working towards various levels of education in Maths, English, history, and sciences. Residents voiced their opinions in January to the Housing Services satisfaction survey. The results are being reviewed and acted upon by senior management team. Young people on site were given Christmas gifts and selection boxes in partnership with Christians Against Poverty and Random Acts of Kindness. In December 2024, power cards became available for purchase at the new Public Protection office at Maress House, Irvine. This gives residents the option to purchase power cards out with office hours. • Housing Services to continue to work in partnership with supporting agencies to ensure Gypsy / Traveller needs and aspirations are factored into consideration. LHS_13. Listen to Gypsy/Travellers from unauthorised encampments so that we can better understand and respond to their needs Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 13 100% of Gypsy/Travellers living in unauthorised encampments are approached for a Support and Needs Assessment During 2024/25 officers engaged with and managed 67 unauthorised encampments: 17 of these being between 1 January – 31 March (Q4). Our Gypsy/Traveller Co- ordinator completed a needs assessment for every unauthorised encampment site and provided advice and support to the Gypsy/Traveller community where required. Our Gypsy/Traveller Co-ordinator updated relevant services with any issues raised and liaised with members of the public to strike a balance between the travelling and the settled community. We also worked in partnership with Police Scotland to perform 5 joint visits to unauthorised encampments. Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, we responded to 258 concerns regarding encampments. • Continue to work in partnership to support and manage unauthorised encampments across North Ayrshire. • Consider the Scottish Government’s research on the ‘negotiated stopping’ model for supporting roadside encampments pilot report recommendations. 2023 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support) LHS_14. Carry out an options appraisal on potential Gypsy / Traveller site improvements Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The publication of our findings, and supporting action plan (if feasible) On 3 June 2025 Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Redburn Grove redevelopment in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2026-2031, which will be considered by Cabinet in October 2025. • Site to be included within the SHIP 2026-2031. • Scottish Government Guidance in relation to funding for Gypsy/Traveller site improvements awaited 2024 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration) LHS_15. Develop and deliver an LGBTQ+ informed housing service, including: • Establish LGBTQ+ champions • Develop an LGBTQ+ staff training programme
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 14 • Increase private sector awareness of LGBTQ+ housing issues • Encourage our LGBTQ+ tenants and residents to participate Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The delivery of an inclusive housing service is evidenced by involvement and participation in the delivery and development of housing services An LGBTQ+ awareness session was delivered to staff in July 2024. This was delivered by the Terrance Higgins Trust and a copy of the presentation slides are available for all staff to view. All staff have completed the mandatory training module, Equalities and Diversity 2025. The completion record for this is saved on the HR System. Ongoing engagement with seldom heard groups is taking place via the Communities Team. • The Tenant Participation Team will engage with seldom heard groups to ensure all communities have a voice by developing a new North Ayrshire Network. LGBT+ representation will form part of this new wider inclusive Network. 2024 31 August 2025 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Mananger (Housing Innovation and Digital Development) LHS_16. Work in partnership with statutory and third sector agencies to deliver planned national changes to homelessness prevention legislation Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Publication of our response The Housing Bill is currently at Stage 3. The North Ayrshire Homelessness Taskforce are currently working to understand the homelessness risk factors affecting each of the partner organisations with a role in homelessness prevention in North Ayrshire. The findings from this work are being used to develop the North Ayrshire Homelessness Strategy, aligned to the proposed new homelessness prevention duties detailed within the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024. The Task Force identified the priority groups where further consultation with partners would be required in relation to the impact of ‘ask’ and ‘act’ and how to improve partnership working. The agreed groups are as follows: • Domestic abuse • Continue to work with the Homeless Task Force in partnership to maximise the opportunities for homeless prevention. Next Task Force meeting 03/07/2025. • The outcome from these groups is currently being utilised to help inform the 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 15 • Communities & education • Health & complex needs • Children impacted by homelessness • Justice & community safety The groups have all met and the feedback is being used to inform on the Homeless Prevention Strategy and associated action plan. A Housing Services Partnership awareness event is being arranged for 30/10/2025. The aim of the event is to highlight the various areas of Housing, the Housing Bill (‘Ask’ and ‘Act’) and to promote partnership working. This will take the format of a ‘conversation café’ and ‘marketplace’ encouraging networking across the services. A talking wall will be on display and participants will be asked to provide feedback and suggestions on how to work better together. Co-ordinators and frontline staff are carrying out scheduled visits to partners frontline services to raise awareness of the assistance available through the homeless service, promote joint working, develop relationships, resources available, and the ‘Ask and Act’ duty. strategy and action plan. • These groups can be reconvened to carry out targeted pieces of work. • Learning from this event will be used to inform the Homeless Prevention Strategy. • Continue to schedule sessions and capture a wide range of partners. LHS_17. Develop and deliver a North Ayrshire inter-agency strategy to prevent homelessness Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Levels of homelessness will reduce The Homeless Prevention Strategy is currently being developed with partners input via the Homeless Task Force. This will be tied into a review the Rapid Re- housing Plans (RRTP). In order to finalise this, we are currently procuring the service of a Housing Consultant to incorporate a Rapid Rehousing review and future plans. • The strategy remains in development along with the review of the RRTP. 2024 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice) LHS_18. Through the ‘Violence Against Women Partnership 2021-2026, deliver the North Ayrshire violence against women and girls action plan aligned to the ‘Equally Safe' strategy
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 16 Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to A reduction in domestic violence and achievement of the Violence Against Women National Standards accreditation North Ayrshire VAW Partnership meetings were re- established in May 2025 and the VAW National Improvement Service have agreed to visit North Ayrshire later this year to undertake member consultations to inform the local VAW Strategy in accordance with Delivering Equally Safe priorities. A VAW Lead Officer post is currently being recruited. The 16 Days of Action Operational Group was re- established in August 2025, with the first meeting arranged for mid-September. Of the 1184 homeless cases in 2024/25, 171 (14.4%) individuals reported to be fleeing domestic violence in comparison with 133 in 2023/24. Of the 171, 142 (83%) were females. Temporary Housing and Support Service to Women experiencing or at risk of violence contract is currently subject to tender, with the new contract to be effective from 1 October 2025. • Recruitment of VAW Lead Officer • Development of North Ayrshire VAW Strategy and Action Plan aligned to Delivering Equally Safe National Strategy. • Conclusion of tender process for Women at Risk of Violence. • Implementation of contract and monitoring framework. 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) (Temporary Accommodation, Resourcing and Housing Support) LHS_19. Work with our partners to develop a hospital discharge pathway Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to 0% of those leaving a health care setting will be homeless We are collaborating with partners, to create a hospital discharge pathway that will recognise the proposed “Ask” and “Act” recommendations within the Housing Bill. This will promote partnership working and encourage early intervention to prevent homelessness and ensure the housing needs of patients are identified on admittance. • Creation of hospital discharge pathway 2023 31 July 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice) LHS_20. Continue to work with the HSCP to support young people make the transition from care to a home of their own Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 17 100% of young people are supported as they leave care and move into their own home Through the Brighter Pathways group, we have refreshed the ‘Housing and Care Leaver Protocol’, which is currently in draft format. From April 2024 to end March 2025, 14 tenancies were allocated to individuals who are in receipt of continued care through the Local Authority. Housing Support for individuals who are in receipt of continued care is provided solely by the HSCP Throughcare Team, as outlined within the Housing and Care Leaver Protocol. • Enhanced Housing Options interviews are being offered by Senior Housing Officers across localities to all Care Leavers to ensure that their housing needs are met and maximise tenancy sustainability. • Weekly updates are being provided to HSCP regarding individual applicant status. 2024 31 March 2027 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice) LHS_21. Consider the pathways into housing for young people to maximise housing options specific to their needs and reduce the risk of homelessness Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Fewer young people become homeless We have recruited 2 Housing Advice Officer (Prevention) posts. Initially these posts will concentrate on reducing youth homeless for individuals leaving the familial home and those who hold their own tenancies. These officers will liaise with Partners to create a referral pathway and to promote homeless prevention. Further consideration to be given to piloting housing First placements for vulnerable youths. • Continue to monitor homeless statistics and the impact of the Prevention Officer role. • Recruit second officer • Draft referral protocol • Work with Housing Advice Officers (Prevention) to identify vulnerable youths for 2024 31 March 2027 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 18 Housing First and develop criteria LHS_22. Implement the integrated prison discharge protocol Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Homelessness as a result of prison discharge is reduced to below 5% Document is complete but remains in draft format. The protocol is reflective of the current practices of the Housing Advice Officer (Prisons). During 2024/25 63 individuals approached for homeless assistance, this accounts for 5.3% of all approaches. During 2023/24, 77 individuals were homeless following prison discharge which accounted for 7% of all approaches. • Continue to monitor statistical data. • Draft integrated prison discharge protocol to be reviewed to ensure it meets the SHORE standards. 2023 31 March 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice) LHS_23. Implement Housing First for our most disadvantaged service users Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to 100 Housing First Tenancies are delivered by 2024 By 31 March 2025 we successfully created 123 Housing First tenancies. At 31 March 2024, we had exceeded the target by creating 103 tenancies. We have planned within current budget constraints to continue to create 20 tenancies per annum over the next 4 years. • Continue to create 20 tenancies annually 2023 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Temporary Accommodation, Resourcing and Housing Support) LHS_24. Undertake a review of tenancies which have failed in the previous 12 months following resettlement of homelessness to inform allocation processes Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 19 Increased tenancy sustainment Tenancy sustainment for Homeless applicants has fluctuated considerably over the past few years. In the reporting year 2022/2023 we achieved 86.5% sustainment success for tenancies which began 12 months previously, however by the following year 2023/2024 this figure reduced significantly to 84/02%. By 2024/25 this figure recovered to 86.59%, thus improving our national sustainment status. Further analysis of this marked reduction in 2023/2024 highlighted that 78 of 489 tenancies failed, with 22 of the 78 being abandoned. Of these 22 tenants, high levels of need in relation to addiction, poor mental health, Justice Involvement and instances of domestic violence were highlighted. A similar exercise undertaken in June 2025 noted that 65 of 522 tenancies failed, with 23 of these being abandoned. Housing Services are working in partnership with NADARS, Justice Services and Mental Health Services through the auspices of ADP(Alcohol and Drug Partnership) to establish sustainment forum. • Current review of Housing Support role to ensure focus of person support. • Current review of temporary Accommodation officer role to ensure focus of property support. • Workforce planning to ensure appropriate skills/ training and learning. • Encourage partnership working • Development of screening process and Information Sharing agreement for multi-agency sustainment Forum Review and establishment of robust internal oversight systems and monitoring. 2024 31 March 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Temporary Accommodation, Resourcing and Housing Support) LHS_25. Review the Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme and recommend future approach Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 20 Publication of the review and action plan (as appropriate) The Rent Deposit Scheme is currently paused as we have been unable to encourage landlords to use the service. The Private Sector Housing Team have been working with the Housing Advice Team to support homelessness prevention measures. The team are currently piloting an approach where a homeless presentation is due to the tenant being served a Notice to Leave by their landlord. The Private Sector Advice team contact the landlord to either mediate or encourage the landlord to use our landlord-to-landlord sales service with the intention that the tenant can remain in the property. The pilot outcomes will be reviewed with the expectation that the service can be further evolved to ensure we are supporting private tenants within our communities. • Review outcomes from the new approach to develop the service. • Review the Rent Deposit Scheme on a yearly basis due to the changing landscape of the private rented sector. • Promote Landlord-to- Landlord Sales service 2024 31 March 2025 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_26. Align support delivery to prevention activities as identified within the Homelessness Prevention Strategy Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Appropriate levels of support available to prevent and alleviate homelessness The Housing Advice Team continue to provide advice and information to households who are homeless or threatened with such, to maximise the opportunity for homelessness prevention. Tailored Homelessness Prevention training to be developed to upskill Housing staff. Two Housing Advice Officer posts have been created, focussing on targeted prevention for 16- to 24-year-old households being asked to leave the familial home. One Officer came into post in February 2025, and second post came into position in July 2025. Housing Support continues to be provided to all in temporary accommodation during their resettlement period of 12 months. • Implement Homelessness Prevention Strategy • Training providers to be approached and tailored course to be produced. • Monitor and review process. Review outcomes to measure success and any other areas for targeted prevention. 2024 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 21 • Currently reviewing the role of housing support staff to ensure holistic, person-centred partnership approach is adopted. • Increased opportunities for learning in conjunction with other services. LHS_27. Review the proportion of social rented lets to homeless people to minimise the duration of homelessness Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Reduce the length of stay in temporary accommodation by 50% from 26 weeks to 13 weeks In 2023/24 the average weeks in temporary accommodation was 16.4 weeks (115 days) for cases closed. In 2024/25 this has decreased to 15.8 weeks (111 days). Shared temporary accommodation model explored and further work to be carried out on the corresponding financial model. • Continue to streamline service delivery to ensure efficiencies and timescales are being met. • Continue to benchmark and learn from other local authorities with regards to alternative models of temporary accommodation and best practice. • Further consider the model of shared accommodation in North Ayrshire. 2024 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Homeless Prevention and Advice)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 22 LHS_28. Consider introducing alternative housing models to meet local housing needs beyond social rented accommodation Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The publication of the review and any associated action plan Research into the feasibility of mid-market rents for North Ayrshire has commenced and a report will be drafted in 2025 with recommendations. NAC continue to work with the Scottish Government on the feasibility of innovative models that are being developed, including leasing schemes. The Housing Investment Taskforce was established in April 2024 by Scottish Government to identify actions that will unlock both existing and new commitments to investment in housing across all tenures. The report was published in June 2025 and identified 28 actions to support investment in new and existing business models to deliver at scale across Scotland. Funding has been secured for support for social renters and other priority groups to buy a home on the open market with support from the Scottish Government’s LIFT Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) Scheme. This helps low to moderate income households buy a home, often freeing up much-needed social housing or reducing waiting lists. The fund is administered by Link Group. • Research will continue during 2025, and a paper will be drafted on the feasibility of mid-market rents for North Ayrshire. • Review the Housing Investment Taskforce report and identify opportunities for North Ayrshire. • Raise awareness of the LIFT Open Market Shared Equity Scheme 31 December 2025 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_29. Support the Scottish Government's target to deliver 110,000 new affordable homes by 2032 by delivering the projects set out within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to New affordable homes are built in North Ayrshire From April 2024 to 31 March 2025, 71 new build Council homes were delivered, and 20 new build homes were delivered by our Registered Social Landlord partners (RSLs). • Continue to monitor Council and Registered Social Landlord (RSL) completions projected for 2025/26. 2028 2032 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 23 • Continue to monitor Resource Planning Assumption (RPA) availability and deliverability of current SHIP projects. LHS_30. Research barriers to mutual exchange in order to increase its use as a rehousing solution Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to There is an increase in the number of mutual exchanges A review of the Housing Allocation Policy is currently being conducted to optimise the use of housing stock to meet the needs of council tenants and housing applicants. Once this has been completed a relaunch and promotion of Mutual Exchange option will be implemented. • Relaunch & promotion of mutual exchange. • Feasibility of creating a Mutual Exchange Officer post to be explored. 2024 31 December 2026 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support) LHS_31. Work with partners to align the North Ayrshire Allocation Policy to emerging issues, incorporating national and local priorities Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The new policy is published Following consultation with applicants, tenants, tenants’ groups, and key stakeholders (11 Dec 2023 - 21 Jan 2024), the North Ayrshire Housing Register (NAHR) partners have successfully undertaken and concluded remodelling requirements to assess the potential scale of impact for the proposed changes to the allocation of housing. The draft North Ayrshire Housing Allocation Policy (NAHAP) has been reviewed by NAHR partners and is scheduled to be considered by Cabinet in September 2025. • Due to be considered by Cabinet on 30 September 2025, with full implementation to follow by 30 November 2025. 2023 & 2026 30 November 2025 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Housing, Customer Engagement & Support) LHS_32. Increase the social housing supply by buying back former social housing Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 24 Former social housing is brought back into the affordable housing supply During 2024/25 the Council acquired two properties via the SHIP and Trust Housing Association acquired two homes on Arran through the Rural Affordable Homes for Key Workers Fund which is available to 2028. Due to the current pace of the housing market the Council has been finding it difficult to acquire homes that are marketed for sale. Officers will look to target acquisitions to minimise the number of missed opportunities. NAC and RSLs continue to work in partnership to identify suitable properties that can be bought back using the Rural Affordable Homes for Key Workers Fund to increase the affordable housing stock available on our islands. • Continue to buy back properties, subject to funding availability. • Housing Acquisition Strategy is under preparation and is expected to launch in late 2025. • Identify further properties that can be bought back using the Rural Key Workers Housing Fund and progress where feasible. 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration) LHS_33. Bring empty homes back into use through the buy back scheme Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Empty homes are purchased and brought back into use as affordable housing A new process for acquisitions was developed in 2024/25 through consultation with teams in Housing Services and PMI. The process will launch in 2025 and has a strategic approach to acquiring properties in our communities including an increased focus on long-term empty homes. One empty home was acquired in 2024/25. • Monitor the progress of empty homes acquisitions following the introduction of the new process. • Proceed with empty homes acquisitions where the strategic needs of the service can be met by the property 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_34. Assess the future housing need and demand of our island residents, workers, and key workers
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 25 Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Island residents’ needs and aspirations are reflected in all service provision North Ayrshire Council has established the Arran Housing Task Force (AHTF) to quantify demand for affordable housing on Arran and identify issues that may be limiting economic growth. A quantitative study was undertaken to determine affordable housing demand on the island, recognising the assessed housing demand information from the North Ayrshire Housing Register and community feedback. Following the study, the AHTF recognised areas that required further analysis, and the Arran Housing Survey was developed and launched on 31 January 2025. The survey looked for responses from Arran households, employees/employers on the island, landlords, second homeowners, empty homeowners, short-term let owners, and those wishing to move to the island, to help shape future housing provision on the island. Following the survey closure on 14 April 2025, the results are being analysed by the Council’s Housing Strategy Team and will be presented to the AHTF. The survey report will require formal sign off by the AHTF and will be published thereafter with the AHTF action plan amended to reflect the outcomes. The AHTF membership includes the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, local community groups, and Arran registered social landlords. A new temporary post within the Council’s Housing Strategy Team is being funded from the income from the reduction in discount for empty and second homes Council Tax in North Ayrshire to support the work of the AHTF and the delivery of the Rural and Islands Housing Action Plan. North Ayrshire Council launched the Arran Local Lettings Initiative in 2021, which awarded Arran residents and/or workers additional points on their housing application. As part of the North Ayrshire Housing Allocation Policy review, it is proposed that the • Develop and implement the action plan for the AHTF following the outcomes from the Arran Housing Survey. • Continue to review the demand on the North Ayrshire Housing Register for Arran & Cumbrae to inform future priorities. 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 26 Arran LLI is adopted into the policy and would therefore be used by all partner landlords who have properties on the island. The draft North Ayrshire Housing Allocation Policy is scheduled to go to Cabinet in September 2025. Affordable Warmth & Zero Emissions LHS_35. Support the Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy to reduce fuel poverty and increase affordable warmth Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Fuel poverty is reduced, and affordable warmth is increased for North Ayrshire residents During the design and planning for each individual project progressed through out SHIP, an options appraisal is carried out to determine the most appropriate sustainability measures required to reduce fuel poverty for our tenants. In our most recent developments, we have opted for air source heat pumps alongside enhanced fabric measures and solar PV panels. An assessment was carried out for each site and measure to ensure property running costs were affordable for our tenants alongside contributing to our net zero target. The Area Based Scheme (ABS) continues to deliver energy efficiency and low carbon technology to private sector households, in hard-to-treat areas. During 2024/25 this targeted scheme has been focused on improving affordable warmth in island properties i.e. Arran and Great Cumbrae, whilst providing roof mounted solar PV to properties in the Kilwinning area where ABS has previously been used to install external wall insulation. • Continue to review each project on a site- by-site basis to ensure the most appropriate sustainability measures are utilised. • The Council will continue to utilise Scottish Government funding through ABS and is investigating the potential to expand the ECO4 Flex partnership scheme to include other local businesses. 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Senior Manager (Property Management and Investment)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 27 In addition, we have been working in partnership with Green Home Systems, an Irvine based company, to access ECO4 Flex funding, and through this partnership have installed 134 measures, such as ASHP, solar PV, loft, room in roof, internal wall and cavity wall insulation, boiler upgrade, first time central heating and TRVs, in 32 properties, releasing over £900k of additional funding into North Ayrshire. The Council also offers Energy Smart emergency support payments for those vulnerable to fuel debt, to support a reduction in fuel poverty, with £122,350 of grants released in 2024/25. The Energy Smart physical measures programme has also been launched, offering low-cost energy efficiency measures to private sector households. The Council also installs solar PV and EWI as part of the roof and render scheme for the Council's domestic stock, supporting a reduction in resident's energy bills whilst reducing heat loss and improving health and wellbeing. The Energy Smart schemes continue to progress in 2025/26 also. • Increased engagement within communities via the Community Climate Action Plan programme of talks is hoped to increase uptake of offers available residents across North Ayrshire. LHS_36. Implement a range of energy efficiency and decarbonisation measures across Council housing stock to meet EESSH2 requirements informed by an EESH2 pathfinder focusing on a whole-house approach to retrofit Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to A whole house approach to energy efficiency and decarbonisation is adopted for Council housing stock North Ayrshire council have appointed external architects (MAST) to carry out a pathfinder project, the purpose of which is to fully understand the financial, technical and customer implications of complying with Zero Emission targets. The information gained will be used to inform NAC’s future strategy and business planning assumptions and provide technical solutions for NAC to facilitate the retrofitting of zero emissions measures. The study focuses on the traditional housing stock built between1945 and 1960, which makes up approximately 75% of the stock. • Further meeting with MAST architect has taken place to discuss environmental monitoring requirements and possible supplier to allow project to progress. Properties will now be identified for monitoring installation and 2023+ 31 December 2026 Senior Manager (Property Management and Investment)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 28 The initial properties have been surveyed, and MAST have issued their recommendations and will agree a proposed scheme of works for each property. We are currently seeking a suitable contractor to provide monitoring within the properties. A budget of £0.550m has been agreed for this project. inclusion in the next phase. • Once monitoring is complete, installation programme of measures suitable for each property will be carried out and a further monitoring period will be undertaken to ascertain the impact of measures and inform future strategy in this area. LHS_37. Review our approach to dealing with dampness and mould issues within properties Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to All our properties are free from dampness and mould and advice given to private sector to achieve same outcome A comprehensive process map has been developed to ensure issues with damp and mould are effectively addressed. The core principles of this process have been implemented and further elements, such as an expansion in the use of electronic monitoring, are being explored. Tenant engagement has also been increased, with regular information provided via corporate social media channels. Subject to Parliamentary approval, the Scottish Government have announced within the Housing Emergency Action Plan that they will implement Awaab’s Law from March 2026 starting with damp and mould to ensure landlords promptly address issues hazardous to tenants in the social and private rented sectors. • Continued development of surveying and reporting methodology • Joint working with health professionals when required to progress escalated cases (e.g. NHS Nurse Led Asthma Clinic) 2023 31 March 2026 Senior Manager (Property Management and Investment) Senior Manager (Operations – Building Services)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 29 Improving the quality of our homes LHS_38. Review Census 2022 data to identify any emerging issues which may impact housing and related services Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Develop an action plan to address any issues which may emerge following review Economic Policy are currently reviewing the Census data and are creating an action plan on depopulation which will include a focus on housing. The Housing Strategy Team will continue to work closely with Economic Policy to develop the action plan • Continue the joint working across services to develop the depopulation action plan. 2024 31 December 2025 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_39. Promote and provide a ‘pre-tenancy support service’ for landlords (on tenancy agreements and property standards) Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Landlords are supported to create and maintain tenancies in accordance with legislative requirements The pre-tenancy support service was established in April 2019 and is managed by the Private Sector Team. Uptake has been low, and the team continues to look at alternative ways to promote the service. The team continue to support landlords, owners, and tenants in North Ayrshire with a range of other services including tolerable standard inspections, missing shares assistance, common repairs, resolving disputes, and empty homes. • The team will continue to look at alternative ways to promote the service. • Review the stage 2 and 3 lead committee report on the Housing (Scotland) Bill 2024 to ensure the private sector service remains fit for purpose. 2023 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy) LHS_40. Continue to implement the Housing Asset Management Plan Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Implementation of the Housing Asset Management Plan action plan PMI and Housing have reviewed the Council’s approach to asset management against the recent Scottish Government guidance and have developed an action plan to assist in the implementation of a best practice model. • We continue to regularly review our delivery of the HAMP - progress is regularly 2027 Senior Manager (Property Management and Investment)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 30 Scottish Housing Net Zeo Standard (SHNZS) The Scottish Government published a consultation paper regarding a new net zero standard for housing. The proposed standard will replace the former energy efficiency standards (EESSH and EESSH2) which form part of the SHQS. Key changes to the new standards include: • A new fabric efficiency rating (which focuses on the amount of energy for heat consumed by a property) measured in kWh/m2 /year (level and date TBC). • A requirement to replace polluting heating systems with a clean heating alternative by a backstop date of 2045 (interim targets TBC). Capital Programme Delivery On-going delivery of the various capital programmes continues, progress and budget implications are reported regularly at the Joint Budget meeting and Housing Asset Management Board. Statutory Compliance Actions taken to improve access (end to end process review, higher application of access policy, additional staff resources) have seen an improvement in this area. 24/25 performance: Gas Safety: 99.99% Smoke Detection: 100% Electrical testing: 97.65% 23/24 performance: Gas Safety: 99.79% Smoke Detection: 99.99% Electrical testing: 78.71% monitored through HAMB reporting. Alongside this an Integrated Asset Review is underway with regular meetings of all stakeholders, and we continue to work through our action plan. • Whilst we await the outcome of the Scottish Government consultation on SHNZS, our Pathfinder project is underway and will see physically works carried out in 25/26, this will inform the Council’s longer- term strategy in relation to SHNZS. Alongside this our Capital Programmes continue to deliver improvements to our stock through investment in PV/EWI and upgraded central
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 31 heating systems. Progress in this area will continue to be reported through our regular Joint Budget Meetings, HAMB and Scottish Government returns. • In 25/26 we will continue to improve our Statutory Compliance delivery, similar to that used in 24/25 where we saw increased utilisation of our forced entry policy and increased resource to create a dedicated compliance team. This saw substantial improvement in all areas of compliance which we wish to sustain. LHS_41. Prevent housing crisis through early intervention by ensuring housing staff can identify the long term needs of tenants to ensure housing is sustainable Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 32 All housing staff can identify the long-term needs of tenants, including the challenges facing people with neurodiverse issues A ‘Home Visit Form’ has been developed that will be completed by Housing Services staff during visits to tenants’ homes. Following the completion of the form the information will be used to update relevant systems with up-to-date information and will be used to identify support provision, repairing issues etc., within NAC mainstream tenancies. Homelessness Working Group has been established that incorporates frontline and management staff from all Housing teams with a view to reviewing processes and procedures that will maximise our opportunity to prevent homelessness and increase sustainability. Enhanced housing options are available to all tenants and applicants within all localities. Housing Options Toolkit to be promoted by all managers and teams to complete all modules. Half day closures to be used to allow staff time to complete training. Multi-disciplinary teams in locality offices allow pre- allocation discussions/checks prior to offers to ensure that the offer is appropriate to the applicants and their household needs. • DPIA form has been completed and is awaiting sign off. When agreed Officers will be instructed to use the new home visit forms. • Homelessness Strategy & Prevention Manager to obtain current licence list and update staff members. 2024 31 December 2025 Senior Manager (Neighbourhood Housing & Homelessness) Team Manager (Neighbourhood Housing) LHS_42. Complete our Sheltered Housing Reprovisioning Programme by investing in 11 sheltered housing complexes over the lifetime of this strategy Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Sheltered housing complexes are refurbished The Barnett Court, Saltcoats refurbishment completed in March 2024 and the Cheviot Court, Irvine refurbishment completed in November 2024. • Refurbishment of Vineburgh Court, Irvine and Laigh Court, Beith with work anticipated to start at these units in early 2026. • Draft plans consultation took 2028 31 March 2029 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration)
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 33 place at Moorburn Park, Largs in October 2024 and at Regal Court, Dalry in December 2024. Final plans for these units are currently being prepared. LHS_43. Ensure that the Strategic Housing Investment Plan addresses current and future demographic needs Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Housing investment priorities within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan align to future and current demographic needs Demand for social housing is reviewed annually as part of the development of each new SHIP. • Development of a performance management framework for housing need and demand. 2023+ 31 March 2028 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Affordable Housing & Regeneration) LHS_44. Consider establishing a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to Local Development Plan 3 sets out the requirement for accessible private housing delivery A Housing Evidence Paper, prepared to inform the preparation of the LDP Evidence Report, was published in December 2024 and reissued in March 2025 for stakeholder comments. The paper considers the requirement for a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector, noting that the Government has committed to a new ‘Scottish Accessible Homes Standard’ which will be part of national building standards by 2025/26. The accessible standard will see accessibility designed and built into all new homes, increasing the housing choices for people with disabilities and reducing the need for expensive retrofitting as people age or their needs change. • Review stakeholder comments and complete Evidence Report, setting out evidence and position on the establishing a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector. 2024 30 June 2027 Senior Manager (Planning) Strategic Planning Manager
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Appendix 1 - Local Housing Strategy 2023 – 2028 Action Plan – Year 2 (2024/25) 34 The views of private sector housebuilders and others on the need for a target for the delivery of accessible homes within the private sector LHS_45. Review and update our Scheme of Assistance to: • Ensure the promotion of positive outcomes for people living with autism in the private housing sector • Ensure inclusive engagement with hard to reach groups • Ensure our literature is available in a format that is suitable for people with literacy and / or sensory / communication issues Desired Outcome Latest update Next Steps RAG Status Original due date Revised due date Assigned to The publication of information, sign posting to advice services and the planned refresh of the Scheme of Assistance The Scheme of Assistance is currently being reviewed which will include the changes to the Repairing Standard which came into force on 1 March 2024 and the promotion of positive outcomes for people living with autism in the private housing sector. Following review, an action plan for consultation and engagement will be implemented prior to presentation at the appropriate Committee. The Scheme of Assistance will be available in a format that is suitable for people with literacy and/or sensory/communication issues. Housing staff, including the Private Sector Advice Team, participated in an online training session in October 2024 ‘Introduction to Neurodiversity’ delivered by HSCP and in association with an external partner. • Action plan for consultation and engagement will be developed and implemented. 31 December 2025 Senior Manager (Housing Strategy & Development) Team Manager (Housing Strategy)