36 Application of restrictions imposed by Section 157 of the Housing Act 1985 in South Oxfordshire - consideration of the local government ombudsman's report
At its meeting on 26 September 2016 the joint audit and governance committee considered the further report of the local government ombudsman on two complaints from South Oxfordshire residents concerning a restriction on the sale of properties under s157 of the Housing Act 1985.
The committee resolved not to accept the local government ombudsman’s recommendations and to refer them to Council for consideration.
The confidential report considered by the committee at its meeting on 26 September 2016 is attached.
Additional documents:
Minutes:
At its meeting on 26 September 2016 the Joint Audit and Governance Committee considered the further report of the local government ombudsman on two complaints from South Oxfordshire residents concerning a restriction on the sale of properties under s157 of the Housing Act 1985. The committee resolved not to accept the local government ombudsman’s recommendations and referred them to Council for consideration. Counsel’s confidential advice on this matter was circulated to all councillors prior to the meeting.
Andrew Down, Head of HR, IT and Technical Services, introduced the report and officers from the legal team responded to questions.
Council noted historically there has been a lack of consistency in the council's policies on these covenants and how they have been applied, and that the Cabinet will therefore be considering a review of the policy at its December meeting to provide clarity going forward.
Council resolved to attempt to settle the matters with the complainants.
Application of restrictions imposed by Section 157 of the Housing Act 1985 in South Oxfordshire - consideration of the local government ombudsman's report
To consider the head of HR, IT and technical services’ report (attached).
Additional documents:
Minutes:
The committee considered the further report of the local government ombudsman on two complaints from South Oxfordshire residents concerning a restriction on the sale of properties under s157 of the Housing Act 1985.
Councillor Robert Simister addressed the committee.
RESOLVED: to not accept the local government ombudsman’s recommendations and to refer them to the South Oxfordshire Council meeting for consideration.