This programme review outlines the challenging context against which the Housing Market Renewal programme was operating in 2008/09. It focuses on some of the broad strategic issues facing the programme, as well as commenting on performance. The report considers:
- The evolving nature of the programme - how the changing external environment and policy developments have impacted on the programme, and how the pathfinders have responded.
- The impact of the market downturn - how the mortgage market downturn and its feed through to the wider banking crisis and the general recession may affect HMR.
- Programme evaluation and wider public policy developments - the most recent commentaries of the pathfinder programme covering major external evaluations and other developments likely to impact on the programme in future.
- Progress and performance of pathfinders - pathfinders' progress and direction of travel based on ongoing review and assessment of key interventions and overall programme delivery.
- Key outcome measures and market trends - progress against key outcome targets, focusing on homes subject to low demand, empty homes and house prices.
- Conclusions - the overall progress and positioning of pathfinders, some unresolved issues and what will be important in moving the programme forward over the difficult year ahead
Recommendations are made to build upon the foundations laid and maintain momentum during challenging times. These include:
- Maintain focus on supporting communities and vulnerable households - Pathfinders have been effectively supporting communities through change, promoting community capacity building and contributing to local employment and training initiatives. They are well placed to work with partners in helping local communities through the downturn in terms of supporting vulnerable households.
- Sensitively adapt plans to maintain momentum - A range of policy responses and new products should be considered, including revising programmes and targets, re-phasing developments and restructuring development agreements.
- Maintain focus on improving efficiency and effectiveness - Generally, a more comprehensive and sophisticated approach to value for money is still required.
- Retain a clear emphasis on quality and keep an eye to the future - Despite market difficulties, it is important for pathfinders and their partners to make the right decisions so that places are ready to benefit from the eventual upturn.