Agenda item

The Chairman invited Members to comment on the Priorities and Work Programme for 2022/23, with consideration for the report which set out the anticipated upcoming key issues for housing and planning.

Members made the following comments:

• Housing supply was an issue both for in rural and urban areas.
• Utility infrastructure was a growing consideration in housing and planning. In particular, the lack of capacity in the national grid was raised as a barrier to prevent development.
• Retrofitting of homes was raised as a priority, with concerns raised at the long-term economic impacts. As well as lobbying government for funding, consideration should be given to what councils can do, with a Sussex based not-for-private-profit cooperative of retrofit experts as an example.
• It was suggested that the ask that air quality should be to a “national standard” should be changed to instead be to “public health guidelines”.
• As well as consideration for the systemic issues that prevent people from being housed, it was suggested that there be a regional approach as different regions face different challenges.

Following discussions, it was proposed that there should be a reframing of key issues within the Boards’ remit when lobbying central government. Messaging should start with the aim of addressing economic issues and then determining issues or opportunities for growth in housing, environment and transport that can have an economic impact.

Members were reminded to share any relevant information relating to the impact social housing rent cap would have on councils.

Action:

The 2022/23 Priorities and Work Programme to be amended in line with the agreed Board positions and circulated to Board Lead  Members for final agreement.

Decision:

Members noted the report.