Local government in London initiates questionnaire before trimming down housing fund allocations
Hackney Council, situated in East London, is encouraging over 23,000 households to take part in an eight-week survey to gather feedback from residents on budget priorities for its housing services. The council is facing a challenging financial situation, with plans to cut £11m from its housing budget over the next four years.
In an effort to address this, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has proposed a survey to set the savings program in the housing budget. The survey aims to let participants see what certain decisions could mean for service delivery and gather information about what residents feel are important areas for Hackney Council to focus their budgets on going forward.
Participants in the survey can allocate a total of 100 points across services provided by Housing Services. This provides an opportunity for residents to have their say and influence budget decisions. Clayeon McKenzie, Hackney Council's cabinet member for housing services and resident participation, emphasized the importance of resident participation in the survey to ensure as much information as possible is gathered about resident priorities.
The survey covers a range of topics, including routine repairs and improvements, estate improvements, tackling anti-social behavior, and day-to-day repairs. Unfortunately, funding cuts could lead to longer wait times for these services. For instance, residents may have to wait longer for replacement windows and kitchens, and day-to-day repairs may take longer to complete than they currently do.
Hackney Council staff will also organize face-to-face conversations for resident feedback. However, the lack of funding may result in delays in carrying out improvements to estates, and funding cuts could cause delays in tackling anti-social behavior.
Clayeon McKenzie expressed concern about the long-term implications of the government's refusal to provide extra funding to cover the housing budget shortfall. The government has imposed a 7% cap on council housing rent rises in 2023/24, but rising costs for housing services such as maintenance and repairs will not be covered by rental income.
In light of these challenges, Hackney Council is urging residents to participate in the survey to ensure their voices are heard and to help shape the future of housing services in the borough. The decisions made by Hackney Council will impact the lives of the residents living in their homes and on their estates.
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