The Chairman's Report

Eric Armitt, Equity Housing Group's Chairman makes his Annual Statement.

Reflecting on the past 12 months and looking forward marks a watershed for Equity Housing Group.
In my report last year I mentioned that our Chief Executive Roger Tuson was recovering from a stroke. Unfortunately, although Roger has made progress in his recovery, he decided to take early retirement in July last year. I would take this opportunity on behalf of the Board and staff to wish him well for the future.

At the start of 2006 we commenced the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive which culminated at the end of March in our Housing Director, Steven Jackson being appointed to the position. The Board were unanimous in their choice from a strong field. Although Steven has been with the Group for over 20 years he brings a fresh perspective to the position and one which emphasises the importance of providing a first class service to our residents and those who seek housing from us. You will see from page 3 that the Board, Steven, the executive team and managers have reviewed and updated our vision and mission statements to make them more accessible and forward looking.

Last year saw two new appointments to the Board, Graham Bruce and Khalil Rehman, who were recruited following an external advertisement, a first for the Group. I was overwhelmed by the response to our advertisement both in terms of the quantity and quality of those who applied. Graham and Khalil bring a fresh perspective to the Board.

During the course of the year we undertook a review of our governance arrangements using external assistance. This has resulted in significant improvements in governance and recently we completed the first round of Board Member appraisals. An attendance rate of 87% at Board meetings reflects the commitment and dedication of my fellow Board Members. However, there is still scope for improvement.

In response to falling demand for 'bedsit' accommodation we commenced a programme of conversions at two of our sheltered housing schemes, Chatsworth Lodge in Buxton and Pauls Moss in Whitchurch. These conversions represent significant investment in our stock; the resultant flats are superb. Importantly we involved the residents in these two schemes in the design from the outset and took on board their views. They are delighted with their new homes. Later in this year's report we identify other work to maintain and improve our stock.

Involvement is key to continuing to provide homes and services that people want and are prepared to pay for. Over the years we have continued to improve the way in which we engage with our residents. With a geographically dispersed stock this represents a challenge for us. I find the feedback and comments we get from residents invaluable, but key is acting upon what is said. In the report we show how we have responded to some of the comments received.

We have now commenced on site at Brinnington in Stockport a scheme I mentioned last year, this being the culmination of our partnership with Stockport MBC and Brinnington Community First. Although it will be some time before our shared ownership houses will be ready for sale, the new community centre is now being built and the re-location of the retail units has started. Things are beginning to change in Brinnington, our most ambitious regeneration project to date.

After over 8 years in the planning we have finally completed the first social housing scheme in Cawthorne on the outskirts of Barnsley. The scheme is a mix of houses for rent and shared ownership and provides much needed housing in a village where house prices are beyond those on moderate incomes.

We have worked closely with Barnsley to refurbish town centre properties for sale on a shared ownership basis. Whilst it is not unique to bring properties back into use, we are undertaking this work without the requirement for any subsidy in the form of grant.

Over the past twelve months we have partnered with Rotherham Borough Council to identify under utilised buildings within the town centre that could be converted to provide new accommodation. The shared ownership scheme at College Street is now on site, helping to transform Rotherham into an economically vibrant and 'living' town centre.

As ever it would be remiss of me not to thank the many organisations with whom we work in partnership. Without their support we could not continue to provide new housing and services to our residents. Also I would thank my fellow Board Members for their continuing support, enthusiasm and conscientious approach to their duties. Finally, I would extend on behalf of the Board our thanks to the staff who despite the uncertainty during the past 12 months kept things going, this is very much recognised and appreciated. I am looking forward to an exciting future for the Group.