Tracy Allison, Chief Executive, West Kent says: “I am delighted that in my first year at West Kent we have been able to put in place a new three year partnership agreement with Sevenoaks District Council that has a real strategic focus for how we can work together to achieve our common ambitions for the district.”
In addition to joint working to support local community groups and organisations, areas cited for partnership working include: 
- developing solutions to reduce the number of empty homes and options to reduce homelessness
- working together to pilot the retrofitting for a home to meet new carbon neutral standards as a case study for homeowners and local Landlords
- working together to regenerate the High Streets through a pilot project for conversion of office to residential
- developing a joint approach to increase the choice and numbers of homes that are suitable for an ageing population and people living with disabilities.
Pav Ramewal, Chief Executive, Sevenoaks District Council adds: “The Covid-19 pandemic has had far reaching consequences for the country. West Kent and Sevenoaks District Council have successfully worked in partnership in our immediate response to support the local communities. We believe that this focus will help us positively respond to the current challenges and economic climate.”
Background
The Chief Executives at West Kent Housing Association and Sevenoaks District Council confirmed their commitment to bring about real improvements to the Sevenoaks district.
The partnership has existed since 1989 when West Kent Housing Association was formed from the stock transfer of Sevenoaks District Council’s council housing. Traditionally there has been an annual event to review plans and the recent year’s achievements.
West Kent has never considered itself just a landlord but looks to invest in, and help build, strong, sustainable, communities. Recognising the common strategic ambitions has meant West Kent Housing Association and Sevenoaks District Council are able to agree to shared objectives for the next three years.