Housing services provided by Corby borough council were rated ‘fair’ and given one star out of three by the Audit Commission after an assessment.

The rating marked an advance on the previous zero star rating that the service received.

Customer focus, management and leadership and the professionalism and approachability of staff were deemed to be aspects that had improved.

Other strengths included good access arrangements and the fact that customers can contact the service through a variety of mechanisms.

Ann Bennett, the Audit Commission’s lead housing inspector for the East Midlands, said: "Management of the service has improved since our last inspection in 2005 and cross-authority working is delivering real benefits for tenants.

"The introduction of the One Stop Shop has improved quality in services for tenants, cleaning and grounds maintenance is generally of a high standard and strong partnerships are being developed both internally and externally," she added.

Remaining weaknesses included the repairs service and the level of resident involvement.

Corby borough council owns and manages 5,177 homes.