Temporary director of housing appointed by Council will cost £104,250 for six months
By Tara O’Connor, local democracy reporter
A temporary director of housing has been appointed by Croydon Council at a cost of £104,250 for six months.
Dr Alison Knight is taking up the role at the council deals with the fallout from shocking living conditions exposed in a tower block in South Norwood.
An independent investigation showed that residents of Regina Road had been complaining to the council for four years and the authority’s failure to act put the health and safety of tenants at risk.
The cash for the job comes from the council’s Housing Revenue Account.
Council leader Hamida Ali said: “We are determined to improve everything about the service we give to our council residents, and this appointment underlines we are serious about raising Croydon’s housing standards, and at pace.
“I am really pleased to welcome Alison to Croydon – her experience in leading on housing improvements and culture change will be particularly invaluable in improving the way we meet our council residents’ needs and work more closely with them.”
Dr Knight is set to join Croydon at the end of this month.
She is currently strategic place advisor on housing delivery at Thurrock Council and previously led a housing improvement programme at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council.
She said: “I am passionate about delivering excellent services to local people, and this role is a great opportunity to help make sure everyone in council homes feels cared for and receives a really good, responsive experience across our teams.
“I look forward to meeting all the colleagues I will be working closely with and getting started.”