Issue - meetings

To consider the report of Head of Finance, Procurement & Commercial Services.

Consideration was given to the report of the Head of Finance, Procurement and Commercial Services as contained on pages 335 to 344 of the Book of Reports which provided a summary of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and Housing Capital Programme positions for the 2021/22 financial year.

The Interim Corporate Finance Manager provided an overview of the report referring to details set down in the report and appendices.

The Head of Housing and Regulatory Services also provided information in respect of the Wates unsubstantiated contract claims in respect of Brexit and Covid business cases.  She explained that these costs will be mitigated through various processes.  She also informed that this is being looked at in detail with Legal and that Members will be kept informed in respect of this.

In discussion comments and questions were raised in respect of:

·         Wates unsubstantiated contract claims – Brexit and Covid business cases

·         Escalating building costs / shortage of tradespersons

·         Overspend on responsive repairs / financial stability of Wates

·         Update on proposal to build Carbon Neutral Dwellings - The project is still in the procurement phase, and this is currently progressing

·         Re-roofing works

·         Walls

RESOLVED: That the 2021/22 HRA and Housing Capital Programme positions be noted.