independent Cornish news and comment

Penwith: Penwith in joining discussions with Devon and Cornwall group

PHA is currently seriously considering a move that will enable it to grow and develop more new homes whilst continuing its independence of operations.Discussions are at an early stage into joining with the Devon and Cornwall Housing Group Structure.Tenants of the PHA - some 3,800 across the county - are being kept informed of the progress of the talks and meetings are being arranged for them to give their views. They have also been invited to input these through the Association’s newsletter, website and in letters.“The aim is to make more impact in meeting housing needs across Cornwall and improving efficiency and services to our customers� commented PHA Chief Executive, Andy Moore.

• Tenants have already learned of the five-point benefits to the Association that could flow from such an arrangement by a letter from Andy Moore and an article in PHA News.
• The ability to manage more homes in Cornwall.
• A wider choice of homes across Cornwall, especially through transfers.
• More concentrated areas of homes across Cornwall, making more efficient use of service providers, such as response maintenance.
• Wide opportunities for involvement.
• Possible efficiency gains enabling improvements to be made in front line services as well as more new homes.

One issue that could be raised by tenants and Penwith residents alike is if the two groups join what is the likelihood of the DCHG using any spare housing capacity in Penwith to alleviate pressures in their Devon region.The meetings for the tenants will be at St John’s Hall Penzance o­n 2 June 2005 at 7.00 pm and at the St Ives Guildhall o­n 6th June 2005 at 10.00 am. Any PHA tenants interested in attending are asked to contact Madie Parkinson-Evans (resident involvement officer) at the Association’s office.

Penwith Housing Association: 67 Morrab Road Penzance Cornwall TR18 2 QJ Tel: 01736 331799