Northwards Housing will have access to £47 million to repair and improve its homes in Manchester, after receiving a glowing assessment from an independent watchdog.

An arms-length management organisation for the north-west of England, Northwards was found by the Audit Commission to provide ‘good’ housing services, with ‘excellent’ scope for future improvement.

The commission noted that the management is particularly strong at tackling anti-social behaviour on its estates, though there is still work to be done on its repairs performance.

“Northwards has made significant improvements since taking on the management of the housing from the council in December 2005,” said Yvonne Davies, head of housing at the Audit Commission.

“A dynamic and skilled team is in place with energy and ideas to take the service forward. We think prospects for further improvement are excellent,” she added.

The commission reports that estates under Northwards’ management are clean and well-maintained; there is good gas servicing; a customers-focussed repairs and lettings service; a city-wide approach to housing - with developed and effective schemes to involve residents.

© Adfero Ltd