URL: https://democracy.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=799

Decision Maker: Leader of the Council

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To approve the freehold acquisition of a two bed house in Lichfield for the sale price of £265,000, with a further £6,000 set aside for associated legal costs and repair/maintenance works.

Content: To approve the freehold acquisition of a two bed house in Lichfield for the sale price of £265,000, with a further £6,000 set aside for associated legal costs and repair/maintenance works. The Leader approved the freehold acquisition of a two bed house in Lichfield for the sale price of £265,000, with a further £6,000 set aside for associated legal costs and repair/maintenance works.   The Leader noted that this purchase will see the total number of properties purchased with the £2m to two, leaving approximately six further purchases to be made.   The Leader noted that the council will work with Homes England ongoing to determine whether any external funding is available to contribute to the purchase and delivery of this accommodation unit. Should funding be available, any underspend of capital monies to fund this property will be maintained in the capital budget for further purchases. There is a limited supply of temporary accommodation and social rented housing units in the district. As a result, oftentimes families and individuals are placed in bed and breakfast accommodation with limited facilities outside of the bedroom, making it unsuitable for long-term placements.   Last year, the council spent approximately £191,000 on temporary accommodation (the exact amount of this may differ) Delivering approximately eight new units of temporary accommodation will help to provide more suitable homes to local people facing housing crisis, ensure that rent paid is reinvested into quality temporary accommodation and reduce the council’s overall spend    The team’s work will be focused on purchasing and refurbishing existing properties, which the council has identified is the swiftest and most efficient way to deliver much-needed homes in the locations where people need them most. This will ensure a swift turnaround of properties and maximise our ability to provide immediate assistance to those in need.   The council’s wholly owned trading company, Lichfield West Midlands Traded Services (LWMTS), will also provide property management support and the tenants will be supported by our housing team.   The council will be purchasing properties in key locations, including Lichfield City, Burntwood, Fazeley and Armitage with Handsacre, to provide residents with easy access to shops, transport, and local services   When choosing properties, the team focuses on properties that are near to: •                Public transport. •                Supermarkets offering good value products. •                Schools. •                Health centres. •                Community facilities   Research with individuals who need to move into temporary accommodation has indicated they need easy access to all of the above. An equalities impact assessment has been carried out on our approach to property selection and purchase. There were no other alternative options given.

Date of Decision: November 24, 2025