Decision details

This report is for the Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Growth, Planning, Housing and Economic Development to consider exercising delegated authority under paragraph 3.4.3 of Part 3 of the constitution in accordance with the terms of their portfolio at paragraph (d).

Approval is sought for the introduction of the proposed Mobile Homes Act 2013 Fees Policy.

To authorise the adoption of the proposed Mobile Homes Act 2013 Fees Policy.

The Mobile Homes Act 2013 came into effect on 1 April 2014. It has amended The Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, and introduced a new licensing regime for all Mobile Home Parks.  The Act introduces some important changes to the buying, selling or gifting of a park home and the pitch fee review process.  For site licensing functions, the Act introduces additional powers for Local Authorities to ensure compliance with site licence conditions.

The Council can also now charge a fee for these licensing functions, serve enforcement notices and oversee and publish any site rules relating to a site within the City of Peterborough. Currently there are 9 licensed park home sites in the City, however, this policy will be relevant City wide.

The Mobile Homes Act 2013 was passed in order to mark the Government’s commitment to giving better rights and protection to park home owners, whilst ensuring honest professional site owners can flourish. Peterborough City Council’s Fees Policy is intended to support the Governments Policy and the wider policies of the Housing and Health Improvement team.  The Fees Policy will enable the Council to better discharge its responsibility to protect the vulnerable across the City in line with corporate objectives.

To not introduce the policy which would have the outcome as detailed in 8.1 of the report.

None.

            This document/proposal has been researched and drafted with due reference to the following sources of guidance and good practice:

·         The Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 as amended (CSCDA60);

·         Mobile Homes Act 2013;

·         Mobile Homes (Site Licensing) (England) Regulations 2014;

DCLG Guidance on Site Licensing Fee Setting – February 2014;

·         DCLG Guidance on Definition of relevant protected sites – January 2014; and

·         Regulators Compliance Code.