Jargon Buster

Communities and Local Government

Communities and Local Government sets UK policy on local government, housing, urban regeneration, planning and fire and rescue.

The Decent Homes Standard

The Decent Homes Standard was set by the government in 2000 as a minimum requirement for council housing. A decent home is defined as warm and weatherproof with reasonably modern facilities.

Expression of interest

Government funding for housing PFI projects is currently in the form of PFI credits. As there are limited PFI credits available, the award is based on a competitive process.

The expression of interest is the council's initial bid for PFI credits. The document includes information about the proposed project, including a description of the project area, and an explanation why PFI has been selected as the option and that it represents a value for money solution for the project.

Housing Options Review

The Housing Options Review was concluded in 2005. This review involved consultation with council tenants and leaseholders across the city. It outlined the options available in order to meet the Decent Homes Standard. Council tenants and leaseholders were then given the opportunity to vote on their preferred option for each area.

Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU)

When contracts reach a certain financial value they must be advertised within the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) to allow expressions of interest from companies across Europe.

Outline business case

The outline business case is a 30 year plan, required by the government. This document states the likely costs of the project, the in-depth details and the potential for success.

Planning guidance

Planning guidance is a formal planning document for an area. It lasts for 15-20 years, setting out regeneration proposals and guidance for housing, shopping, the environment, schools and transport. It provides a clear way forward for the future development.

Preferred options report

The preferred options report was published by Salford City Council in the summer of 2007, following a consultation period. This report outlined the options for Pendleton covering housing and wider regeneration initiatives.

Private Finance Initiative (PFI)

PFI is a method of funding projects. Private firms are contracted to complete and manage the redevelopment which involves demolition, building new homes and managing housing. These contracts are typically given to construction firms and last a long time, sometimes up to 30 years.

Private Sector Partner (PSP)

The private sector organisation with which a local authority enters into a Private Partnership or PFI contract. Private Partner is usually a consortium made up of a range of private sector companies working collaboratively.

Right to Buy

The Right to Buy scheme gives eligible council tenants the right to buy their property from their council at a discount.

Salix Homes

Salix Homes is an ALMO - an Arms Length Management Organisation. Salix Homes provides housing management services for council homes on behalf of the council.

This page was last updated on 11 May 2011