Strong progress continues after Housing Service regulatory upgrade

At the first meeting since the upgrade, the Regulator recognised the improvements made and confirmed that Castle Point Borough Council is the first local authority to achieve a turnaround from a C4 to a C3 rating. We are proud of the pace of our improvements which has not compromised the outcomes for tenants.

The Council is now firmly focused on the next phase of its improvement journey, which will include:

•    continuing to strengthen tenant engagement and involvement
•    embedding service improvements to ensure they are sustainable
•    further enhancing compliance and safety standards
•    building on performance monitoring and accountability

Cllr Dave Blackwell, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council said: “Achieving this upgrade marks an important turning point and reflects the clear direction we have set to improve our Housing Service. 

“We have been honest about the challenges and focused on putting the right leadership, governance and oversight in place to drive change.”

Cllr Warren Gibson, Deputy Leader said: “This upgrade is thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Housing Improvement team, our housing employees and my fellow Councillors who have embraced change and focused on delivering better outcomes for our residents.

“We are committed to maintaining this momentum and continuing to strengthen the Housing Service so that residents see consistent, long-term improvements.”

Cllr Rob Lillis, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Housing said:

“We are proud of the progress we have made, particularly the recognition from the Regulator that our improvements have not only been swift but also thorough and sustainable.

“While we are pleased to have reached a C3 rating, we know there is more to do. Our focus is firmly on the future and we are committed to continuing the improvements with a focus on reaching the next milestone of a C2 rating.”