To consider the report of the Chief Executive (enclosed).

DECISIONS

1.     That the creation of three new posts within the Building Control team (two Building Safety Levy Officers and one Team Leader/Senior Administrator) be approved.

2.     That the creation of three new posts within the Environmental Health team (Private Sector Housing Team Leader, Senior Housing Technical Officer and Tenancy Relations Officer) be approved.

3.     That the conversion of the Homelessness Assessment Officer post from a fixed-term contract to an established post, originally approved by Cabinet in 2023, be approved.

Reasons:

1.     The Council has a statutory duty to implement and administer the Building Safety Levy from 1 October 2026. Additional staffing resource is required to ensure the Council can meet its legal obligations, including processing applications, managing accounts, monitoring payments and enforcing compliance. Early recruitment is necessary to allow time for training, system configuration and testing prior to the go-live date. 

2.     To approve the proposed structure for the Environmental Services Team to meet the new statutory duties and rising service demand brought about by introduction of new legislation requirements and focus. 

3.     Fixed-term contracts are less effective in retaining officers with the necessary skills and experience to support service delivery during periods of sustained high demand. The role has experienced a turnover in postholders, and it is proposed that converting the post to a permanent establishment position will improve staff retention and provide greater continuity within the team.

Considered – Report of the Chief Executive, presented by the Executive Director (Communities).

Other Options Considered:

The option to not increase staffing has been considered and rejected due to the risk of non-compliance with statutory requirements.