Significant improvements in tenant satisfaction and a successful council homes capital improvement programme are just two of the ways council tenants are continuing to benefit from a strong performing housing service.

Cllr Barry Johnson, Cabinet member for housing, delivered his report at the reconvened November meeting of Full Council on Wednesday 13 January. The report outlined improvements to the service and demonstrated that the 2019/20 financial year was the strongest performing year for overall tenant satisfaction since the department began measuring levels in 2013/14. Satisfaction increased in a number of specific services including grounds maintenance, the Transforming Homes programme and the repairs service.

Cllr Johnson said: "I'm delighted with the dedication and hard work shown by our housing service. We've demonstrated that our performance has gone from strength to strength as we continue to provide value for money for our residents, alongside a well-received tenant experience.

"In the last 12 months, we’ve handed over the keys to 29 high-quality council homes at our award-winning Alma Court development in Grays and to 31 brand new properties at Claudian Way in Chadwell St Mary. Work on site is underway at Calcutta Road, Tilbury, and this is due to complete later in 2021.

"Our housing officers have had to act quickly in providing an excellent response to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the well-being of sheltered housing residents and rough sleepers. We’ve been able to help and support some of our more vulnerable residents and ensure they have a roof over their heads and access to a range of support provided by our teams. Thank you to officers and our partners for all your hard work during this challenging time."