Decision details

The Executive considered a report for recommendation to Council in respect of the final Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Budget and Rent Setting for 2021/22.

In response to a Member’s question, it was confirmed that the HRA Business Plan was scheduled for review in November 2021, by which time the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the levels of rent arrears, Universal Credit and Council Tax support would be more clearly realised.

It was RESOLVED:

1.          That the HRA rent on dwellings be increased, week commencing 5 April 2021, by 1.5% which is an average increase of £1.46 for social rents, £2.38 for affordable rents and £1.80 for Low Start Shared Ownership homes per week (based on a 52 week year).  This has been calculated using the rent formula, CPI +1% in line with the Government’s rent policy as set out in Paragraph 4.1.1. of the report

2.          That Council be recommended to approve the 2021/22 HRA budget, as set out in Appendix A to the report. 

3.          That Council be recommended to approve the 2021/22 Financial Security options, as set out in Appendix B to the report.

4.          That Council be recommended to approve the 2021/22 growth options, as set out in Appendix C to the report.

5.          That Council be recommended to approve the 2021/22 Fees and Charges, as set out in Appendix D to the report.

6.          That Council be recommended to approve the 2021/22 service charges.

7.          That Council be recommended to approve the minimum level of reserves for 2021/22, as shown in Appendix E to the report.

8.          That the contingency sum of £250,000 within which the Executive can approve supplementary estimates, be approved for 2021/22 (unchanged from 2020/21).

9.          That Council be requested to note the comments from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as set out in the report.

Reason for Decision:  As contained in report.

Other Options considered:  As contained in report.