Decision details

Margaret Dodwell (Chief Executive, Lewisham Homes) introduced the report. The following key points were noted:

4.1       Lewisham Homes is developing its business plan for the next three years. It has engaged with residents, staff, staff unions, council officers, the Mayor, and local MPs. 

4.2       As the council’s housing-delivery company, Lewisham Homes’ business plan will be aligned with the priorities of the council.

4.3       The business plan will include working in partnership with local organisations, such as health partners, to promote independent living, reduce social isolation, and improve access to employment.

4.4       The Chief Executive of Lewisham Homes will be meeting with the Director of Public Health for Lewisham to see how public health can be advanced through the housing agenda.

4.5       Finding ways to generate more income to fund tenancy sustainment and other discretionary activities is another key part of the business plan.

4.6       Lewisham Homes is taking into account the findings of the Hackitt report – which was commissioned by government following the Grenfell Tower fire to make recommendations on the future regulatory system.

4.7       Lewisham Homes is exploring opportunities for creating more homes by adding more stories on top of existing buildings – commonly known as ‘top-hatting’. This process could involve the use of modern methods of construction.

4.8       In order to deliver new homes, partnership working may involve joint ventures with housing associations, private contractors and other organisations.

4.9       Lewisham Homes wants to ensure that it is adding social value through its development programme by, for example, creating apprenticeships.

The committee asked a number of questions. The following key points were noted

4.10    Repairs are one of the most important issues for residents and fall within a number of areas of the draft business plan. The use of smart technology in assets, such as lifts for example, will be explored further as a way of improving services for residents.

4.11    Inclusivity training will be provided to the Lewisham Homes leadership team.

4.12    The committee noted Lewisham Homes’ responsibility to help tenants tackle anti-social behaviour and suggested that more detail on this should be included in the business plan.

4.13    The committee asked about the impact of the Government’s announcement to remove the cap on borrowing against the Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

4.14    The Cabinet Member for Housing informed the committee that a briefing on the lifting of the HRA cap, and what this enables, will be provided to all members once the detail has been worked through.

4.15    The committee will have the opportunity to scrutinise the business plan again in early 2019.

Resolved: the committee noted the draft business plan.