New agencies 'must support local authorities'

The new homes agency and social housing regulator proposed in a new governmental housing paper must support local authorities in their efforts to improve the quality of life of residents, London Councils has said.

In its response to the 'Delivering Housing and Regeneration' paper, London Councils said that emphasis must also be placed on existing housing stock as well as boosting supply.

Local authorities should also have the power to intervene at times when social landlords are underperforming, the organisation suggested.
"The core function of both of these agencies must be to improve housing quality in local neighbourhoods, and life chances for the people who live there," commented London Councils housing executive member Jamie Carswell.

"The proposals show promise but could do with strengthening in several areas.

"Local authorities have a duty to ensure the existing housing stock is of a decent standard, and the new homes agency must explicitly support this," Mr Carswell added.

The Audit Commission has recently suggested that an 'Office of Housing Standards' should be set up to regulate social landlord performance.


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