09 July 2004
The Housing Corporation is facing its second major upheaval in three years after MPs concluded that it was out of tune with the government's regional agenda.
A new regional structure was announced by Jon Rouse, its chief executive, on July 1 as the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister published its review of the corporation.
The nine-month review concluded that many stakeholders were confused by the way the corporation made investment decisions. It also demanded assurances that the government would get the best return on money spent on new social housing.
Two days earlier, the ODPM select committee had raised similar concerns, suggesting the corporation should take on a strategic role overseeing the new regional housing boards.
Under the new structure, there will be an investment team in each of the nine English regions as well as new field offices and field directors. An efficiency unit will work with housing associations to ensure they achieve value for money, while a national team will advise on methods of design and construction.
Rouse said the restructuring would not affect total staffing but eight senior postholders must apply for new jobs. The overhaul is likely to take up to four months.
About 70 jobs were lost in a reorganisation three years ago following Norman Perry's appointment as chief executive. The latest changes will mean the corporation, which employs about 580 staff, will resemble the organisation prior to Perry's arrival.
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