Wokingham

New kitchens, bathrooms and central heating systems are on offer to Wokingham council tenants in Woodley after Wokingham District Council launched the second phase of its ‘Decent Homes’ work last week.

On Tuesday July 4, over 100 Wokingham tenants visited Christ Church on Crockhamwell Road, Woodley, to see the choices that are available to them under the scheme. Tenants were able to view displays of kitchens and bathrooms on offer through the scheme as well as ask advice and information from council contractors CTS and Preheat who will be carrying out the work.

Wokingham District Council is carrying out work on some of its homes to bring them up to the required ‘Decent Homes’ standard as required by central government. The government has said that a ‘decent’ home is one that:

* Is in a reasonable state of repair
* Has reasonably modern services and/or facilities
* Has a reasonable degree of thermal comfort (efficient heating and effective insulation)

Council homes in the Wokingham district are in a relatively good position already, with a survey in 2004 showed that approximately 30 per cent of the council’s housing stock needed work to bring them up to the required standard. Substantial work has already been completed on homes in The Courts in Winnersh, and work in Woodley marks the start of the second phase of the project. In total, the project will see some £2.7million invested in council-homes in Woodley.

The launch event saw head of Wokingham tenant services John Everett offer information on what the project would involve and, as a community event, Thames valley Police’s crime prevention officer name, was on hand to answer questions.

Head of tenant services John Everett said: “The launch was very successful with many tenants commenting on how they welcomed being involved right at the start of the project. Several tenants also expressed an interest in forming a residents’ association, something that is actively encouraged and supported by the district council. All in all it was a very positive day for all involved.

“I would like to thank everyone who turned out on such a searing hot day and the Rainbow Café for looking after everyone so well.”

Executive member for community care and housing Wokingham Cllr Pauline Helliar-Symons said: “The Decent Homes project sees major investment in order to keep up the very high standard of housing that Wokingham Council has always set.

“Tenants’ involvement in the project is vital, ensuring that they get a say in how their homes are improved. The day was a great success and I’m thrilled that so many people turned out.”

Wokingham District Council