I was very disappointed in the manner in which my views were portrayed in the key worker living article.

The example of promoting the homes directly through schools related to three houses in Essex that were finished in the summer of 2004.

We had carried out our own research some months prior to funding allocation being confirmed on how these units could best serve the needs of key workers in the area.

In conjunction with the zone agent, we set up the lettings system, because clearly the “intermediate rent” centralised system – which was to be run through the zone agent – was still in its infancy. Far from “not waiting” or even working against the system, we were working within the process.

My final comments were based on the question of what we would do if we were unable to let through zone agents. The answer, is of course, quite simple: if there are insufficient nominations for key worker-rented units via the zone agents, we will need to go back to the Housing Corporation to seek a change to the processes. RSLs will not sit there with empty homes! We concluded the interview with the point that you have to give something a chance to work – this article concentrates on knocking the process.

Dick Mortimer, development director, Mosaic Homes

Source

Housing Today

Postscript

The editor replies: While certain elements of the Key Worker Living scheme have still not been realised, the feature “Keep the Champagne on Ice” does demonstrate that the Homebuy section of the programme has been successful. We will monitor how the scheme progresses in the coming months, and will keep readers updated with key developments.