Promise of improved services for tenants
THE new head of housing at West Lancashire Borough Council is relishing her role and aiming to make services even better for tenants.
Jacqui Sinnott-Lacey is the director of housing and inclusion and brings a strong track record of leading and managing housing services to the role, including delivering housing-led regeneration.
Jacqui has more than 25 years’ experience in the housing field and her most recent role was as executive director with Peaks & Plains Housing Trust, a high performing housing association operating services throughout Cheshire and the North West.
She led the team to many awards and a top 20 ranking in The Times 100 best companies.
Other achievements included delivering affordable new homes programmes in Cheshire and High Peak and major investment programmes.
Before this, whe worked for a number of Cheshire, Merseyside and Manchester organisations, including a number of councils.
Improving homes and enhancing and revitalising areas are key to the council plan, and Jacqui said that she was very excited about her new role.
She said: “I have always been extremely passionate about the need to provide good quality housing and excellent services for customers.
“This is a great time to join West Lancashire Borough Council, as there is so much ambition to deliver fantastic and innovative plans right across the borough.
“Tenants are already reaping the benefits of the council’s record investment in its housing stock, and the Firbeck Revival Project is a great example of how estates can be made even better places to live.
“I am sure the Beechtrees Revival Project, which includes a number of new homes, will also be a great success.
“The council is also looking into the possibility of forming a new development company which could help in the delivery of housing and commercial schemes to benefit the social and economic wellbeing of the borough.
“I am also looking forward to working with councillors, staff, and in partnership with customers and local organisations to make sure we make the best use of our resources, and ensure the council’s housing service continues to provide value for money.
“I will be listening to tenants’ views on how we can improve housing services and I particularly want to hear from younger tenants, to get them involved in housing.”
Away from her work role Jacqui is married with four children and is also involved in charities supporting young people’s issues.
Cllr Jenny Patterson, portfolio holder for housing and landlord services, said: “Jacqui is an excellent recruit for the council as she brings a lot of skills and experience to the role of director. I’m looking forward to working with her at this exciting time for the authority.”
For more about housing in West Lancashire, please visit www.westlancs.gov. uk/housing