Issue - meetings

To note the update report and progress made as at Appendix 1.

It was reported that of the 48 actions listed in the housing strategy action plan for year 1, 40 had been achieved since October 2020, seven had not yet been fully achieved and one not achieved in the projected timescale, however they were on track to be completed by the due date in November 2021.

Highlights of the report included that 100 affordable homes had been built in the last year, and it was hoped to deliver another 300 within the next two years.

Enforcement action was being pursued against private landlords where necessary, and the council was hoping to bring empty homes back into use.

Funding had been obtained for a better long-term homeless facility at Barton which was COVID safe.

The first purpose built extra-care housing scheme had been built at Ryde Village, new homes built at Shalfleet, work had commenced at the Branstone Farm site. This innovative approach to housing would help young people get a foot on the property ladder.

Government had been lobbied regarding the affordability gap for rented housing on the island. The island’s case had been accepted and more funding would go to Housing Associations on the island. There was still a lot of work to be done. The council’s vision was for everyone to have a place to call home.