Housing Renewal Policy

1. Introduction

1.1

On the 18^th July 2002, the government introduced legislative changes fundamentally affecting the way Local Authorities can provide assistance to enable housing renewal in their area.

These far-reaching new powers are introduced under the REGULATORY REFORM ORDER 2002 and in order to use them; Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council must have a published Housing Renewal Strategy in place by 18^th July 2003. This strategy must reflect national, regional, and local level needs, and form an integral part of the Borough Council's wider Housing Strategy, which in turn links to corporate objectives.

Housing Renewal is pivotal to our aim that "Shrewsbury and Atcham will be a prosperous area and a leading county town inthe West Midlands where people value and enjoy an improving quality of life".

1.2

Whilst the responsibility for maintenance and improvements rests with owners the Government recognises the need to assist the most vulnerable households within some of the more deprived areas.

1.3

The Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002:

• Introduces a new general power enabling local housing authorities to provide assistance for housing renewal.
• It repeals some sections within The Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 regarding renovation grants; common parts grants; houses in multiple occupation grants; group repair and home repair assistance.
• It repeals the provisions in the Housing Act 1985 relating to loans given by local housing authorities for housing renewal (with the exception of local authorities who are not housing authorities).
• It streamlines the provision governing the declaration and operation of Renewal Areas.
• It makes minor changes to the provisions in relation to Disabled Facilities Grants.
• It gives a general power to provide for repair, improvement and adaptations of housing and also for the demolition of a dwelling and to help with rebuilding costs. Legislation on clearance areas and enforcement of fitness standards remain unchanged.

1.4

In order to use the new power the Council must have a published Housing Renewal Policy in place. Information on the policy must also be made available to the public.

1.5

The new power enables local authorities to give assistance to persons directly or to provide assistance through a third party such as a Home Improvement Agency, specialist financial intermediary or other special purpose vehicle. Assistance can be given to pay for any fees and charges associated with the assisted works.