The government’s ‘Decent Homes Standard’ set a target for social landlords to provide a minimum standard of housing conditions by December 2010.For PHA, this led to a project which was highly detailed in scope and planning and at a cost approaching £28 million.It has spanned over 3,000 properties with new kitchens, bathrooms and heating being fitted when appropriate.This giant modernisation and ‘face-lift’ has steadily covered the whole of the area.
Andy Moore, Chief Executive of PHA said: “The programme has been carried out over several years and we are pleased to have met all the requirements of the Decent Homes Standard.All this was funded by money that we borrowed privately – which we will pay back with a proportion of the rents received from our tenants. A small minority of resident did not want to have the work done but in all other homes we have met and in many cases exceeded the government’s standard.”
Norman Emberson, Chair of the Peninsula Tenants’ Committee added: “As resident representatives, we have closely monitored PHA’s work on decent homes.We have been pleased that customer satisfaction has been high, with a lot of praise about improvements to their homes.”
Mrs Ebart, a resident from St Ives was clearly delighted with the work being carried out in her property.She said:I'm so pleased to have received a new kitchen and I am very happy with the improved layout.” Mr Ebart added: "The workman was very helpful and did a really good job."
Andy Moore continued: “The decent homes work will continue as we maintain existing standards in the future.As a result of other properties becoming older, we estimate we will carry out this major work on a further 140 properties this year.All of these achievements are despite the fact that two contractors, ROK and Connaught, went into administration during the lengthy programme.Because of the dedication shown by our staff, and the cooperation of our residents and other contractors, we have been able to deliver our promises.”
