Issue details

The Council is committed to making decisions in respect of its housing functions that are informed by and, wherever possible, reflect local aspirations and priorities.  To this end before making any decisions in relation to specific housing issues that affect one or more parishes the Council will normally conduct a local consultation exercise in accordance with the following principles:

1)                  consultation will be carried out when proposals are at a formative stage;

2)                  sufficient background details and supporting information together with reasons will be given for the proposals to permit intelligent consideration and response

3)                  adequate time will be given for consideration and response

4)                  the outcome of the local consultation will be conscientiously taken into account in finalising any proposals.

However, in light of recent experiences, it is evident that the lack of clear guidance on the Council’s approach to consultation on housing issues for both staff and local representatives that a protocol is needed to manage expectations and provide a standard and consistent approach.