Issue - items at meetings - Carbon Reduction in Housing Update

RESOLVED:

2.1       That Committee note progress and planned action with regard to carbon

reductions in housing.

2.2       That Committee notes expenditure of up to £50,000 as the council’s financial contribution toward costs of the work of the Retrofit Taskforce to Deliver Zero Carbon Homes as outlined in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.13.

10.1    The Sustainability & Energy Manager introduced the report to the committee.

Answers to Committee Member Questions

10.2    Councillor Philips was informed that the Assisted Management Strategy was still in progress, with the task force being an ongoing project using local suppliers working together. The councillor would be written to regarding Warm Safe Homes grant.

10.3    Councillor Fowler was informed that hydrogen boilers where being looked at in the city and in Sussex and it was noted that the boilers where more for commercial use rather than homes. Ground source heat pumps are best used in larger new build housing schemes. Air source heat pumps are also being investigated, as are all new

technologies.

10.4    Councillor Evans was informed by the Assistant Director Housing Management that the removal of flooring was not done automatically when tenants move. Furniture recycling project was being expanded and flooring was being left in place now. The service has changed.

10.5    Councillor Williams was informed that solar panels are being looked at and there is a programme running this year. Commercial roofs are an issue and systems are being trailed. Pilot schemes have been carried out.

10.6    Councillor Meadows was informed by the Assistant Director Housing Management that the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) would be used to improve council homes, creating jobs from funding linked to different stock at Lewes District Council (LDC) and Brighton and Hove City Council (BHCC) with information being fed back to Chester University as part of a study project. The Sustainability & Energy Manager noted that Lewes did not have a lot of high rise buildings and the report reflects the various types of housing found in both Brighton & Hove and Lewes covered in the study. Jobs and skills created benefits greater Brighton, not just one area. Support to landlords was being given under Warm Homes scheme and private tenants are able to access funding with landlords’ permission.

Vote

10.7    A vote was taken, and the committee unanimously agreed the recommendations. (Councillor Clare had left the meeting and took not part in the decision making process or the vote).

10.8    RESOLVED:

2.1      That Committee note progress and planned action with regard to carbon reductions in housing.

2.2      That Committee notes expenditure of up to £50,000 as the council’s financial contribution toward costs of the work of the Retrofit Taskforce to Deliver Zero Carbon Homes as outlined in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.13.