Agenda item

Committee is asked to consider the procurement of Inner Circle Consulting to deliver an evidence-led Housing Delivery Plan which can be taken forward by West Surrey Council.

The Committee resolved to approve the procurement of Inner Circle Consulting to deliver an evidence-led Housing Delivery Plan which can be taken forward by the West Surrey Authority.

The Committee considered the procurement of resource to support the preparation of an evidence-based Housing Delivery Plan. Following the adoption of the Local Plan with target delivery numbers and the issue of statutory Best Value directions, the Council was required to put in place a realistic plan to deliver housing numbers outlined in its Local Plan. The Council had limited resources to support this work due to competing pressures with the Staines Masterplan and the Local Plan Immediate Review. A short-term specialist commission would assist with this work, and the suggested firm had a proven track record of supporting Councils to progress Housing Delivery.

The Committee noted SMART objectives were set out to ensure effective evaluation of what would be delivered. Some members of the Committee expressed concern that report was being brought forward so close to Vesting Day, but acknowledged the pressures on staff across the delivery of the Improvement and Recovery Plan and progression towards Local Government Reorganisation. Other members of the Committee noted the lack of housing being built in the borough, and encouraged the progression of the work.

A recorded vote was requested by Councillor Clarke.

The Committee resolved to approve the procurement of Inner Circle Consulting to deliver an evidence-led Housing Delivery Plan which can be taken forward by the West Surrey Authority.