SDC Leader's blog - w/c 27 October 2025
Improved standards for social housing come into force this week, to protect tenants from the potentially dangerous effects of damp and mould. Our housing teams have been busy preparing for the new regulations, which have been brought in following the tragic death in 2020, of a toddler called Awaab Ishak, who died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his social housing flat in Greater Manchester.
There are now strict timeframes for social landlords to investigate and make safe any hazards. As a council landlord, we’re also investing to improve the energy efficiency of council homes to make them cosier and healthier for tenants.
Privately owned rented properties aren’t covered by the new regulations, but there is advice available on the Council website. For anyone who’s keen to improve the energy efficiency of their own property, the Furbnow scheme for Gloucestershire is a great option.
Last week the Local Government Reorganisation proposals were published on the Future Gloucestershire website, setting out the options for the One Gloucestershire unitary authority and the East/West two unitary option. The red-amber-green ‘Options Appraisal’ in these documents clearly indicates, based on the evidence, that a single unitary council would be preferable. However, for both options, it notes the risk of a ‘democratic deficit’ when it comes to civic engagement and participative democracy compared to the current model. Each of the Gloucestershire councils will confirm their preference during November, with a final decision to be taken next year by Government following a consultation.
With Halloween festivities taking place this week, there are some top tips for eco-friendly decorations, fancy dress and tasty pumpkin recipes from Gloucestershire Recycles, and it’s great to see that the annual Halloween Costume Swap is once again taking place at Gloucestershire libraries until 3rd November.
Cllr Catherine Braun, Deputy Leader