Issue - meetings

Councillor Lisa Homan observed that there had been a catalogue of failures on this project.  The scheme had cost the Council over £5m without the original objective being achieved.  The properties could not be sold on the open market because the lift could not be used by the occupiers.  In line with their manifesto commitment, the accommodation would be let to teachers.  If the flats are not filled by teachers, they will be open to other people via a local letting policy.

The Leader noted that in 2007 the intension was for the flats to be sold as luxury flats but they could not be sold on the open market nor did they fit the Council’s social housing criteria.  The flats would be let to teachers who live in Hammersmith and Fulham.  A number of lessons will have to be learnt from the project. 

1.    That delegated authority be given to the Director for Housing Options, Skills and Economic Development in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Housing to develop in consultation with residents a Local Lettings Plan to govern the allocation of these properties.

2.    That the letting of the rooftop apartments be carried out by the Allocations team with the homes allocated in accordance with the Local Lettings Plan agreed specifically for these properties.