Stevenage Borough Council ordered to improve council housing
The Regulator of Social Housing has rated Stevenage Borough Council’s housing management as needing improvement following an inspection of its 7,700 properties
The Regulator of Social Housing has rated Stevenage Borough Council’s housing management as needing improvement, following an inspection of its 7,700 properties.
The council received a C2 rating – the second-highest grade under consumer standards. The regulator’s inspection found some strengths, including efficient allocation of homes, an effective repairs service, and adherence to health and safety responsibilities. However, weaknesses were identified in tenant engagement and the limited information provided about the housing service’s performance.
The inspection is part of a national programme introduced in April to assess large social landlords. Of the 35 inspected so far, nine received the highest C1 rating, 13 – including Stevenage – received a C2, 12 were graded C3, and one received a C4.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the findings, saying: “We’ve made progress, particularly in handling complaints and improving our repairs programme.” The regulator highlighted that complaints about repairs had informed the council’s improvement plans.
Cabinet member for housing, Cllr Jackie Hollywell, said: “We welcome the inspection because it helps us measure our housing services against the consumer standards. While we’re pleased with the positive feedback, we’re not complacent and recognise there’s more to do.”
Housing officer Matthew Gough described the inspection as an “endorsement” of the council’s approach, noting positive feedback on its housing stock management and ongoing improvements.
Assistant housing director Kerry Clifford pointed to a new resident engagement strategy introduced this year to address gaps in tenant involvement: “We want our tenants to scrutinise and shape the services we provide. This strategy is part of our effort to close the gap identified in the inspection.”
The council plans to discuss the findings at a cabinet meeting on 11 December. Cllr Richard Henry, the council leader, remarked: “The inspection’s positive outcome reflects the hard work of our teams to ensure tenants’ homes are in good condition.”