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Residents in what was previously known as the ‘Chrysalis PFI area’ have voted yes to transfer ownership of their Lewisham Council homes to L&Q.
A total of 2,436 tenanted and 1,154 leasehold homes will be transferred to L&Q after a ballot of residents in Catford South, Forest Hill/Perry Vale/Sydenham and Rushey Green/Crofton Park/Lewisham Central showed an overwhelming majority in favour of the transfer.
David Gannicott, Group Director of South London at L&Q, said: "This is a tremendous result, we are really pleased that residents have voted in favour of transferring their homes to L&Q. This is the first time that we have run three ballots together and achieved such a high mandate from residents. We will be spending over £60 million in the first five years to bring these properties up to and beyond the Decent Homes standard as well as investing in improving the look of the area and in local community projects. We look forward to continuing this work in partnership with residents and Lewisham Council."
L&Q will spend £62 million in a repair and improvement programme for tenanted homes delivering the Government’s Decent Homes standard within the first 2 years following transfer. Works will include new kitchens and bathrooms for tenants and new double glazing. New or upgraded heating systems to individual homes and loft insulation will improve energy efficiency of homes and reduce heating bills. The average investment level per property is around £24,000 per household.
L&Q will also spend £7 million improving the environment and consulting with residents on a range of improvements such as: installation of security entry phone systems; improving lighting in communal areas; improving and installing new boundary fencing and railings; landscaping communal gardens and open areas.
Councillor Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: “This is great news for residents in the transfer areas. L&Q has committed to making a significant investment in peoples’ homes and the local environment. This investment, along with their aim to start works soon after completion of the transfer, shows they are determined to fulfil their promises to residents.”
Terry Thompson, Catford Resident, said: "We've waited for such a long time for this moment, we can't wait for L&Q to take over so we can get our new kitchens and bathrooms."
Residents selected L&Q as their preferred Registered Social Landlord (RSL) early last year after looking at bids from a range of housing providers. L&Q have worked closely with residents since then, detailing the improvements and developments that residents felt strongly about.
Residents will have the opportunity to make decisions and effect change through new Community Boards, to be established in each of the 3 transfer areas. L&Q have committed to keeping rents the same as if the properties had remained as Council-owned.
The Mayor gave the go ahead at a Mayor and Cabinet meeting on 3 March. Lewisham Council and L&Q will now work together to negotiate the final details before the transfer goes ahead, anticipated to take place in October 2010, with the first works starting shortly after. |
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Posted by Kim for L&Q Group |
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