New committee established to scrutinise council housing in Northumberland after damning inspection

It follows a damning inspection published in November last year that found “very serious failings” at the local authority.

The inspection, carried out by the Regulator of Social Housing, urged the need for “fundamental changes”.

The council say the new committee, which will be headed up by opposition councillors, forms a “key part” of improvements needed to address the concerns raised by the regulator.

Speaking at a council meeting, Labour leader Scott Dickinson said: “I’m in full support of this. It is incredibly important we have a standard competent committee that looks at housing issues, not only with council but brings in wider partners such as other social housing providers, and others that provide housing to our residents.

“We give this our full support and hope that the scrutiny committee will function well. It is important for the people’s lives who live in these properties.”

The regulator’s report found the council only has up to date information on the condition of around 3% of its homes. The council was issued with a C4 grading and the failings branded “unacceptable” by the regulator.

Independent councillor Georgina Hill added: “I think this is a brilliant initiative that the council is doing. I have said several times that all roads lead back to the housing crisis.

“Every day, I get awful stories from people with various issues regarding housing.”

Council leader Glen Sanderson has previously said he will ensure improvements are made as quickly as possible.

He said: “It is very important to me that this is a vibrant and challenging scrutiny committee.”

Councillors voted to install Reform UK’s deputy group leader Natalie Rolls as chairman of the committee, with the Conservative administration backing this move. Labour’s deputy leader CLiz Dunn also stood for the position, but was defeated in a vote and will serve as vice-chair.