New Interim Housing Strategy 2010/2011
The Council has drawn up a Housing Strategy which reflects the various comments and points raised by local communities and interested parties over the past few years. The document sets out how the council plans to tackle affordability issues; work towards meeting local housing need; improve housing options; and improve the quality and use of the district’s housing stock.

South Hams Local Strategic Partnership Interim Housing Strategy 2010-11

Cllr Michael Saltern, Executive portfolio holder for Housing, said: “This Housing Strategy for the current year provides direction and sets a framework for progress in the South Hams. Whilst the approach to housing will undoubtedly change at national level, new ideas and initiatives will take time to develop.
 
“What is imperative is that South Hams, as a forward thinking authority, continues to move as fast as possible to meet the needs of our local community.
 
“Ensuring that local needs are put at the heart of this strategy is central to its success.”

This strategy is a one-year interim document, setting out the Council’s plans for housing for 2010/11. Following the setting up of a new shared housing service with West Devon Borough Council, it is anticipated that a joint Housing Strategy from 2011 onwards will be developed.

Homelessness Review and Strategy
The Council, as an excellent authority, is exempt from the statutory duty to publish a new homelessness strategy, based on the results of a further homelessness review, within the period of five years of their last homelessness strategy being published.  However, South Hams District Council has developed a revised strategy based on an up-to-date review of homelessness in the district.

The revised Homelessness Review and Strategy (2008-2013) will direct our Housing Advice Service over the next five years and aims to meet identified gaps in services within the available resources for South Hams residents.  The Strategy has been developed through a combination of research and feedback from partner stakeholders and services users.

Gypsy and Traveller Housing Needs Strategy
Devon wide Gypsy and Traveller Housing Needs Assessment - Final Report

The Allocation Policy
The Devon Home Choice Allocation Policy explains how local authority and housing association homes across Devon will be let and how applicants are assessed and prioritised.

Bond Scheme Policy

Empty Homes Strategy
Empty Homes Strategy 2009

Private Sector Housing Renewal Policy
Private Sector Housing Renewal Policy 2009-2010

What do you think? When you have reviewed these documents, we would like to know what you think: Does it make sense? Have we got our priorities right? How can we improve our future plans? If you have any enquiries, comments or ideas relating to the housing strategy, please email: affordable.housing@southhams.gov.uk If you would prefer, you can contact us at: Affordable Housing Community Regeneration South Hams District Council Follaton House Plymouth Road TOTNES Devon TQ9 5NE Telephone: 01803 861234