Housing renewal assistance policy 2026 - 2030: 1. Introduction

The council has both statutory duties and discretionary powers to offer help and will assistance to improve private sector housing conditions in the borough. The policy has been developed with regard to local, regional and national priorities and available funding and continues the assistance offered in the previous policy.

This policy will come into effect from 1 April 2026. The policy will normally be reviewed annually and amendments to the policy, including where new grants become available, can be approved by the delegated powers held by the relevant Director in consultation with appropriate Portfolio Holder.

It is noted that many external grant sources have their own specific eligibility criteria for example, stating which households, dwelling and works are eligible and in administering these, the council must ensure that they are met.

Previous Renewal Assistance Policies have been approved with agreement that funds returned to the Council through the land charging process for all grants and loans continue to be made available for future private sector housing renewal assistance. This will remain a key to the continued support of residents through this new Policy.