§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when tenants of rented properties owned by Warrington and Runcorn development corporation will be balloted on a choice of future landlord.
§ Mrs. RoeTenants will be consulted as soon as practicable about the ultimate transfer of ownership.
In Warrington, the earliest date is likely to be spring 1990, given the need for legislation to enable Warrington borough council to acquire the houses on the same terms as other prospective approved landlords and to establish a new financial regime for local authority housing. It is essential that tenants can make an informed choice. They will need to know what future rent levels will be and what they can expect in terms of services from prospective landlords before they decide. The borough council will not be able to give tenants definite assurances on these until they have fully digested our proposals on finance.
In Runcorn, where Halton borough council is not interested in acquiring the housing, the tenants will be consulted on whether they wish their homes to be transferred to RUNHAG, the consortium of local housing associations. A fair price for the houses must first be agreed. An independent valuation is expected later this year. Consultation should be possible early in 1989.