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Public spending watchdog the Audit Commission is consulting on the way it assesses strategic housing services. A proposed updated key line of enquiry (KLOE) aims to give a broader view of how housing is linked to other local issues like economic development and sustainability.

It is asking consultees to consider the enhanced emphasis on whether local authorities are driving forward a clear housing vision for their areas and tackling their area's housing needs, and it emphasises the vital role councillors play in shaping what can be achieved in partnership. The updated KLOE reflects the new planning and housing strategic environment in which local councils are now operating, where they are responsible for Local Development Frameworks, Sustainable Community Strategies and more.

The proposed KLOE is designed as a better fit with Comprehensive Area Assessment (CAA) framework, under which inspections will be triggered in response to organisational or area assessments.

The Audit Commission's Director of Housing and Economic Development, Roy Irwin, says:

'The strategic housing function is a vital role for local authorities, yet it is an area in which many have struggled. We are launching a consultation on this draft key line of enquiry to seek the views of the housing sector on proposals aimed at giving a much broader picture.'

The proposed updated KLOE, entitled 'strategic approach to housing', is designed to assess how well local authorities work with their partners and other stakeholders to address current and future housing needs, and how they respond to specific challenges within their areas. It looks at whether a council is using all its available powers and influence to drive forward a tangible housing vision for the locality, balancing its housing market and delivering better outcomes for the community, including disadvantaged groups.

All housing and tenure types in an area will be covered, as well as different types of housing market. Part of the consultation seeks views on extending the use of this assessment tool from local authorities to sub-regional and other area-based partnerships that also deliver strategic housing functions. As with all KLOEs, it is a tool that can be used by all providers to self-assess, and to improve the services they deliver.

The consultation ends at 5pm on Friday 18th September 2009, by which time comments and recommendations on the draft KLOE must have been received. The consultation draft and feedback sheet are available from this link.

Notes to editors

• The Audit Commission is an independent watchdog, driving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in local public services to deliver better outcomes for everyone.
• Our work across local government, health, housing, community safety and fire and rescue services means that we have a unique perspective. We promote value for money for taxpayers, auditing the £200 billion spent by 11,000 local public bodies.
• As a force for improvement, we work in partnership to assess local public services and make practical recommendations for promoting a better quality of life for local people.
• Further details about the role of the Audit Commission can be obtained from www.audit-commission.gov.uk.

For further information please contact:
Mark Nicholson
Media Relations Manager, Audit Commission Millbank Tower, London SW1P 4HQ
Direct line 0844 798 2135 / 0207 166 2135
24hr Press line 0844 798 2128
Mobile 07813 038132
E-mail m-nicholson@audit-commission.gov.uk