Council decides to own social housing again after 25-year hiatus

North Devon Council will re-enter the social housing sector for the first time in 25 years, launching its own housing company to address local needs.

The decision follows strong public support and a new housing plan.

The council’s Strategy and Resources Committee greenlit the initiative after a six-week public consultation earlier this year, where 84% of respondents endorsed council-owned social housing.

The new approach shifts away from outsourcing, with the council taking direct control over building, maintaining and managing properties.

Deliver the right housing

The council’s lead member for housing, Councillor Graham Bell, said: “We had an amazing and engaged response to our strategy consultation.

“We have listened to all responses and are delighted that it has now been adopted.

“Our aim with this housing strategy is to deliver the right housing to meet local needs.”

He added: “North Devon faces a widening imbalance between supply and demand and a need to increase the availability of decent, and accessible accommodation for local families.

“We have a big challenge on our hands with housing in North Devon, but the new strategy provides a framework through which we can address it.”

Offering market rate rents

A wholly council-owned but independent commercial entity will offer diverse housing options, including market-rate rentals, generating revenue for the local authority.

The adopted housing framework outlines three core goals:

• Preventing homelessness by helping residents stay in their homes or find alternatives
• Increasing affordable and sustainable housing stock
• Enhancing the safety and quality of existing residences.

Councillors were also told that becoming a registered housing provider requires new governance structures, staff training and clear policies on development and tenancy management.

The council will also need to assess financial implications, including potential right-to-buy schemes.