Residents, councillors and council staff met the contractors delivering new housing repairs and maintenance services at a drop-in event.

Lewes District Council said the event, at Marine Workshops, was organised in response to feedback from Tenants of Lewes District (TOLD).

Mark Slater, Cabinet Member for Tenants and those in housing need, said: “We have received lots of positive feedback from residents and staff about the new repairs and maintenance arrangement, which is very encouraging so soon after its launch. These contracts were shaped with input from tenants, so it’s essential that the services reflect what they told us.

“This event is another example of how we are listening to residents and acting on their feedback, giving them the chance to meet the contractors delivering services in their communities. Events like this help build the strong working relationships that are crucial for us to continue improving the overall service.”

Residents, councillors and council staff meet the contractors at the drop-in event. Photo: LDC

placeholder image — Residents, councillors and council staff meet the contractors at the drop-in event. Photo: LDC

LDC said the new arrangements were introduced in April after the council reviewed and retendered their repairs and maintenance contracts.

A council spokesperson said: “Tenants and councillor representatives helped shape the approach at workshops, which informed the decision to appoint a main contractor for repairs, voids and emergency works alongside specialist contractors for areas such as roofs, windows, drainage, fencing, aids and adaptations, and damp and mould. The new contract model is supported by an enhanced in-house caretaking and handyperson service.”

MD Group was appointed main contractor for repairs, voids and emergency services. The other contractors include: Sonny Maintenance Limited for aids and adaptations, Booker & Best Limited for windows and doors, Milestone West Limited for roofing, UK Facilities Solutions Limited for fencing, Five Environmental Ltd for drainage, and Bell Group Limited for damp and mould.

Mark Field, operations manager for Lewes and Eastbourne at the MD Group, said: “We are committed to working closely with residents, officers and partners to deliver a service that consistently exceeds expectations. The positive feedback already received provides an excellent foundation, and we will continue to invest, innovate and listen to ensure outstanding outcomes for tenants from day one.”