Decision details

The Housing Services Manager – Business Planning and Strategy submitted a report seeking approval for Housing Services to purchase the property at 39 St Augustines Avenue, Chesterfield under the Right-to-Buy buy-back legislation.

The Housing Act 2004 introduced the Right of First Refusal (RFR) that gave Local Authorities the first opportunity to ‘buy-back’ properties being sold by former tenants who had acquired their properties under the Right-to-Buy scheme.

The St Augustines Avenue property was originally purchased through the Right-to-Buy scheme in 2007. In December 2014 the Council were advised of the proposed sale of 39 St Augustines Avenue by solicitors working for the current owners. The Council had 8 weeks to decide whether to purchase the property at current market value, and a further 12 weeks after such notice was given, to enter into a binding contract.

Approval was sought to purchase the property as part of a strategy to increase Council housing supply.

*RESOLVED –

(1)         That the purchase of 39 St Augustines Avenue, Chesterfield be approved and that the costs be met from the Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme.

(2)         That any costs associated with the purchase of the property and any associated repairs to bring it up to a lettable standard be met from the Housing Revenue Account.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS

To help meet the demand for affordable two bedroom homes.

To consider alternative ways in which to increase the Council’s supply of affordable housing and ensure a sustainable Housing Revenue Account Business Plan for the future.