Wrexham Council’s Repairs Team Achieves Major Backlog Reduction

Wrexham Council has reported significant progress in its housing repairs department, with a sharp decline in outstanding jobs and successful upgrades across the region. During a performance review presented to the Homes and Environment Scrutiny Committee, Councillor David A. Bithell, the Lead Member for Housing and Climate Change, highlighted the team’s achievements, noting that their efforts have resulted in tangible improvements in housing quality.

The council’s backlog of repairs has decreased from 3,247 outstanding jobs in July to 2,056 as of this week, marking a reduction of more than a third. Lee Roberts, Head of Property, Investment and Maintenance, attributed this progress to the hard work of the repairs team. “We’re pushing and pushing and pushing to get the numbers down,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of their continuous efforts.

In addition to reducing the backlog, the council has made significant investments in housing upgrades, including new heating systems and compliance with Welsh Housing Quality Standards. Councillor Bithell pointed out that improvements also extend to sheltered accommodations and facilities for disabled residents. He expressed pride in the department’s accomplishments, saying, “Some of the successes are reducing our repairs backlog, our investment in sheltered accommodation, and more investment in our disabled facilities grant.”

Innovative Solutions to Housing Challenges

To further enhance housing conditions, the council is implementing advanced environmental sensors in select homes to monitor dampness and humidity. This initiative aims to provide proactive solutions to potential issues before they escalate. “If somebody reports damp and it is genuine, we should fit the sensor so we can have remote monitoring and intervention,” Roberts explained. While acknowledging the installation costs, he noted that this approach represents the future of housing management.

The sensors are currently being installed in properties benefiting from external wall insulation, funded through grants from the Welsh Government. This strategy will allow the council to address damp-related problems effectively and efficiently, ensuring timely interventions.

During the meeting, committee members recognized the hard work and dedication of the housing staff. Councillor Trevor Bates expressed his gratitude, stating, “When you look at the key achievements here, it’s one heck of a positive. So I’d like to personally thank you and the team for delivering this, and long may it continue.” Similarly, Councillor Paul Pemberton commended the team’s efforts, noting that their current successes would not have been possible without their commitment.

Impressive Repair Statistics

The council’s report indicates that over 21,000 repairs were completed in the past year, which included significant upgrades such as new heating systems, windows, and doors as part of the housing improvement program. The ongoing efforts not only enhance living conditions but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

With these advancements, Wrexham Council demonstrates a commitment to improving housing quality and addressing the needs of its residents. The positive trajectory in the repairs backlog and the introduction of innovative monitoring solutions suggest a proactive approach to housing management, setting a precedent for other councils to follow.