Each authorrity has been through the process of deciding which investment option is best for them and their tenants. The majority of local authorities which still retain stock have had their option appraisals signed off by the GOSW, putting in place plans to ensure that all their tenants have a decent home by 2010.
Some authorities have already transferred their stock to a Housing Association or set up an ALMO (Arms Length Management Organisation). This year 21 local authorities (of 45 in the South West) still retain stock. Of those who have had their option appraisals signed off in July 2005, since the launch of Sustainable Communities Plan:
- 6 have opted for retention
- 6 have opted to transfer their homes to a not-for-profit housing association
- 2 have opted to set up an Arm's Length Management Organisation to manage and maintain their homes and
- 1 has opted for a mixture of retention and transfer
None have opted to pursue a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) and three have yet to submit their options appraisal, but are expected to do so shortly. In the meantime, they are receiving the full support of the office and the Community Housing Task Force. The remaining three authorities completed their options appraisal prior to the launch of Sustainable Communities Plan.
Decent Homes in the Private Sector
We are working closely with local authorities to increase the proportion of vulnerable households (defined as those receiveing benefit) living in decent homes to meet the 2006 and 2010 targets.
