Issue - decisions

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet notes the content of the quarterly update report.

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth presented the quarterly update on the temporary accommodation strategy and action plan first agreed by Cabinet in February 2025. Continued progress was reported across all key areas, including increasing the supply of housing to prevent and resolve homelessness through new social rented homes and property acquisitions. Phase one of negotiations with temporary accommodation providers had been completed, delivering cost reductions, and phase two was underway to achieve further savings.

Despite this progress, demand from homeless households remained high, particularly due to Hillingdon’s role as a Port Authority for Heathrow Airport and the limited availability of suitable and affordable private rented accommodation. As a result, some families were staying in temporary accommodation for longer periods, placing additional pressure on the homelessness budget. Officers were exploring innovative approaches to expand the supply of leased and private rented sector homes.

The Cabinet Member reaffirmed the strategic aim of enabling residents to live in good quality, affordable homes, supporting strong and safe communities, and reducing reliance on temporary accommodation. The update demonstrated tangible progress while recognising the ongoing financial and demand driven challenges.

The Leader of the Council stressed the importance of closely monitoring temporary accommodation pressures, noting that housing related costs were affecting councils nationwide and that regular oversight of the strategy remained essential.

Alternative options considered and rejected

None.