Council to bring back 11,000 under direct management by 2027
Plans to return more than 11,000 council homes to the direct control of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) are set to move forward, following additional scrutiny by councillors.
WNC will proceed with a phased transition to bring its housing stock - currently managed by Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) - back in-house by April 2027.
The Children, Education and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee confirmed this week that no further action was needed on the Cabinet’s earlier decision, allowing the project to progress.
Around 11,500 homes, including general needs properties, older persons housing and supported accommodation, will eventually be managed directly by the Council.
The move reflects WNC’s commitment to improving safety, transparency and long-term service quality, particularly under the new requirements of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. Bringing services in-house is expected to give the Council stronger oversight and better integration across its housing operations.
The transition will begin with back-office and corporate functions transferring in 2026, followed by the full handover of remaining services no later than April 2027. NPH will continue to operate during this period to ensure continuity for both tenants and staff.
Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said the Council is focused on improving the quality of housing services and will keep residents updated throughout the process.
Tenants are being reassured that services will continue as normal during the transition, with NPH remaining the first point of contact for all housing-related enquiries.
WNC will publish regular updates on the progress of the transfer through its website and tenant communications.