To comply with the Regulatory reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002 the Council agreed a Housing Renewal Strategy for Mid Devon, with an annual review cycle. The latest changes became policy in July 2009
Private Sector Housing Renewal Assistance
There have been a number of changes to the Private Sector Housing Renewal Assistance which can be granted to owner/occupiers and landlords, including:
- loans to supplement housing renovation grants, common parts grants and discretionary facilities grants
- the existing House of Multiple Occupation grant will be extended to encourage landlords to raise standards
- loan assistance to help disabled households to move to more appropriate accommodation assistance to the owners of empty homes to bring them back into use for nominated households
- home repair assistance for victims of domestic violence
- limited grants available for listed buildings where they are used as a House of Multiple Occupation.
Community Housing Strategy
The Community Housing Strategy has also been refreshed and the action plans can be viewed. These provide the work plan for the Housing Enabling and Development Team.
- Affordable Housing Delivery Action Plan April 2009 [45kb]
- Private sector housing action plan April 2009 [136kb]
- Supporting Vulnerable and Homeless People Action Plan March 2009 [28kb]
The Council consulted over 20 independent charities, voluntary groups and business members. A questionnaire which summarised the main themes of the strategy was sent to a larger group of 36 organisations, councillors, parish councils, staff, and to the citizens panel. A new Community Housing Strategy will be in place before summer 2010.
