Basildon Council has pledged to listen harder to tenants and staff after getting the thumbs-up as a landlord.

Almost a quarter of council tenants returned a postal survey that has pushed the authority towards the top of a national table with 85 per cent satisfied with the administration's housing performance.

Councillors were patting themselves on the back all round when the executive committee unanimously adopted the Operational Housing Best Value Plan.

Conservative portfolio holder for housing, Tony Ball, said: "This plan is the culmination of two successive administrations, and I think we can all take some credit for it.

"I believe the staff of this council should also take the credit for it."

Nigel Smith, Labour leader emphasised the input of those living in council accommodation.

"The tenants have played a very important role as well. One thing that is crucial is that we talk to them, and not just talk at them."

Leader of the council, Malcolm Buckley said: "The way things can be improved is by listening to the people living in the housing itself."

Published Tuesday, April 8, 2003

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