What is the policy/strategy/function/trying to achieve/do?    

The overarching aim of the Tower Strategy/Re-provisioning programme is to provide homes that are fit for the future, through a long-term investment programme that spans over 25 years.  Approval was granted at Committee in 2018 firstly to consult with tenants on proposals and at a later Committee to implement Phase 1 of the Tower Strategy/Re-provisioning programme, following completion of consultation with tenants.  Phase 1 is nearing completion with 1629 of 1750 properties identified within Phase 1 now vacant.  Phase 2 builds on the progress achieved in Phase 1, with consultation on Phase 2 proposals, which comprises 974 properties, including 8 tower blocks, now complete. The Tower Strategy/Re-provisioning Phase 2 sets out plans to progress the re-provisioning over a 5 year minimum period, given the scale of the re-housing required and the need to balance the re-housing needs of tenants affected by the re-provisioning programme and other applicants on the council’s housing waiting list.  Approval for the proposals is being sought at Housing Committee on 30 August 2023.

If this policy is subject to the FSD what does it suggest about the impact or potential impact on socio-economic disadvantage?

The Tower Strategy Phase 2 is part of wider regeneration plans to transform North Lanarkshire’s communities, which seeks to address wider inequalities and create opportunities for communities and the people who live in them to prosper and thrive. This will contribute to addressing area deprivation, low income and wealth low through enhanced employment and wider life opportunities that increase prosperity, and more energy efficient, high quality homes in vibrant and attractive communities.

Give details of the impact it has on groups and individuals

The proposals impact on older people, given a high proportion of older people within particular locations identified in the proposals.  This impact may be positive and negative depending on the individual tenant preferences.  Positive impact may be associated with the provision of more accessible, high quality, energy efficient homes in well connected communities.  Tower accommodation presents some limitations in terms of adaptations and is not always well suited to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Negative impact may be associated with preferences not to move, with research indicating that moving in later life can be a stressful process.  33% of tenants require an adaptation impacted by the proposals.  The proposals again can be both positive and negative, in the provision of accessible homes but also in respect of the upheaval and additional barriers that people with disabilities can face when moving home.  Analysis shows that some towers have a higher proportion of ethnic minority households. Although some caution should be exercised, given census 2011 data is the comparator with local population data in the absence of the new census data being published.  10 owner occupiers are impacted.  Similarly impacts can be both positive and negative potentially depending on the preferences of the owners affected. 

What actions/measures will be put in place or are planned to mitigate any adverse impact or promote equality?

Provision of full housing options advice, support and assistance, including assistance to move to support households, particularly those households with additional support needs.  Liaison and partnership working with Health and Social Care to ensure needs are assessed and any identified need for adaptations, equipment or technology is met.  Consideration to wider social needs, employment, education, family networks etc., to ensure suitable alternative accommodation that meets housing needs is identified.  Engagement with owner occupiers to discuss buying properties on a voluntary basis and to provide housing options advice.

What is the result/recommendations of the EqIA?

Introduce the policy with justification regarding potential adverse impact.