KHT marks 10th year with promises to tenants

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Communities

Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT) is celebrating its 10th birthday by launching a new set of promises about the way it will improve homes, communities and the environment.

The promises were unveiled at a birthday open day for staff and tenants, where they could find out more about KHT’s achievements over the past decade and its plans for the future.    

Over the next five years, KHT has pledged to invest £160 million into maintaining homes; to build 400 new homes and invest £63m to meet housing needs; to create 950 jobs and training opportunities for local people; and to invest £6 million in energy saving solutions and reduce its carbon footprint by 28%.

KHT, part of The First Ark Group, turned 10-years-old in July and many events and activities are planned throughout the year. The celebrations started with the burying of a time capsule outside its Lakeview offices.

The housing association was formed in 2002 when Knowsley tenants were asked to vote on whether to transfer stock from the council. Over 60% of people who returned their ballot voted yes.

Councillor Ron Rounds from Knowsley Council said: “Councillors saw that transferring our housing stock and creating a new organisation was the best way forward for our tenants and the borough and I can say that 10 years later it is a success. We have a great partnership and I hope it will continue.”

Ray Bennett, 82, from Whiston, has been active within KHT for the past five years, sitting on many tenant groups and boards. He said: “The voice of tenants is very much taken on board by KHT.

"They are definitely a force in the neighbourhood for good and they have improved the quality of life for people of Knowsley.
 
“They are not just paying lip service, they are making good on their promises. They are getting it right and I am sure that will continue. If they keep up the standards they have set the future promises to be excellent.”