Agenda item - Chair's Communications

3.1       The Chair reported that the meeting would be webcast live and would be capable of repeated viewing.

3.2       The Chair read out the following statement to the Committee.  

“Can I begin by welcoming everyone to today’s first meeting of the Housing and New Homes Committee – the first of the committee meeting cycle since the recent elections. 

Whether you are a new councillor or a returning councillor, I would like to congratulate you on being elected here and can I also note my thanks to the previous administration’s Chair Bill Randall. 

            The new democratically elected Committee of course reflects the wishes of the residents of Brighton & Hove.  On May 7^th they voted locally for both a change of leadership and change of direction of the council.  They have clearly indicated to us all, I think, that they want to see an administration that works better for them.  In practice, this means getting on and working together to improve the housing outcomes and opportunities for residents in the city.  Regardless of party politics we are round the table today to serve our community, our residents, the best way we can. 

            The Committee has added ‘New Homes’ to the end of its title which is a deliberate addition to the committee’s remit by the new administration. 

            New Homes within our city are vital to the health and economy of our citizens where we have an opportunity to join-up the needs of the homeless as well as those needing a family home and form part of our housing strategy to help deal with our housing crisis.  However, we cannot do this alone and we need to work in close partnership with many other organisations within the city to help us deliver on that strategy.

            The next election is some way off however I hope you will feel like me that it is incumbent upon us all to find common ground where we can; particularly in improving the quantity and quality of many homes for lots of our residents, both in the private sector as well as those in social housing.

There is a growing pressure on all housing services in the city which will tax our resourcefulness to ensure we provide the best service or solutions possible.  I hope that, where necessary, we can put aside our political differences and focus on those in need instead.”