Report opens door for homes revamp

The town's council houses are well managed, the report says

Thousands of council houses in Barnsley are set to benefit from a multi-million pound revamp over the next three years.

Inspectors from the government's Audit Commission said the management of the council housing stock was good - a verdict which will unlock millions of pounds of Whitehall cash.

Up to 24,000 homes will undergo improvement work which is set to begin in early 2004.

An Audit Commission report on Berneslai Homes, the council's housing management company, reveals the firm has achieved a "good with promising prospects" rating.

Good performance

The company was awarded a two-star performance rating and even more cash will become available over the next three years if the firm maintains its good performance.

Councillor Fred Wright, speaking for the board of Berneslai Homes said: "The extra funding will help us in our drive towards delivering even better quality homes and services."

Nick Atkin of the Audit Commission said: "The housing services provided by Berneslai Homes are of good quality and customers have a real say in how things should be done.

"Front line staff are helpful, friendly, welcoming and provide good customer care."