December 15, 2011
Titled, ‘At Home in Eastbourne’, the document will address the massive changes in the social housing sector created by the government’s Localism Bill and provide local solutions to the imbalance between a growing housing demand and the availability of good quality new homes in the town.
The current strategy, which began in 2008 and runs until 2013, has achieved a great deal, including the provision of new homes and improved services and better use, maintenance and management of the existing housing stock.
Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Housing and Community Services, Councillor Margaret Bannister, said:
“We need a new strategy to address a range of new challenges; a wide ranging plan that supports our residents at a difficult time, giving everyone an opportunity to live in a safe, well-designed, properly maintained and affordable home. The task is that much greater in the South East where the divergence between income and house prices greater than anywhere else in the UK.”
With the new strategy scheduled to begin in April 2013, Cabinet last night authorised council officers to undertake a programme of consultation to help identify the key housing issues in Eastbourne.
Cllr Bannister added:
“Engaging with all our stakeholders is crucial to the development of the strategy. We must ensure we carefully target the housing issues at the heart of our local communities in Eastbourne. This evidence-based approach will include working closely with those organisations providing wider services and support for those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged.”
